SOAP star Philip Olivier will be on hand for a day-long celebration of adult learning in Darlington later this month.

The actor, who plays Tinhead in Brookside, will open the Passport to Learning Event 2002: Creative Arts day in Market Place, on Thursday, May 16.

Among the activities lined up for the day will be a chance to find out more about The Northern Echo's CommuniGate community web scheme, and to set up a site free of charge.

There will also be a chef's challenge, featuring catering students from Darlington College of Technology, and a watercolour challenge with painters from Haughton Community School.

Presentations of certificat-es and prizes will be made to Passport to Learning winners, who have taken part in adult learning through the Darlington Borough Council-led scheme, as well as the scheme's final draw.

Pupils from Eastbourne and Haughton Community schools, as well as members of the Skerne Park Twinning Project, will provide music.

The Percy recycling company will be on hand to make a giant image of Disney favourite Shrek from recycled materials, as well as kites and lanterns. Alpha Radio and storyteller Robin Ellwood will also be entertaining.

The event will also be a chance to find out more about the adult learning opportunities available in the town, and a number of community groups from across Darlington will be on hand, along with the Blitz Bus.

The day runs from 10am to 3.30pm, with Philip Olivier expected to arrive about 11am, to open the event at 11.30am