PARENTS and children are invited to take part in playtime sessions across the North-East on Wednesday to help raise funds for the NSPCC charity.

The sessions, which are being held at Early Learning Centres, coincide with the NSPCC's Children's Day.

as well as featuring lots of fun and games for the children, they will also give parents the chance to buy selected products at a discount - with the price difference going to the charity's Full Stop campaign.

Early Learning Centre brand director Fiona Davis said activities would include face-painting, lucky dips and penalty shoot-outs.

"Since we established our weekly playtime sessions, thousands of children have enjoyed hours of free playtime," she said.

"This special playtime, dedicated to children on Children's Day, provides Early Learning Centre with a good opportunity to help boost the £40,000-plus that our customers have helped us raise for the NSPCC."

Wendy Hawk, NSPCC corporate fundraiser, said: "We are really pleased that the Early Learning Centre is continuing to support Children's Day.

"By encouraging parents and children to visit their local store on Wednesday they will be having fun as well as raising money for the NSPCC."

Parents should contact their local Early Learning Centre to find out what activities are taking place.