A CHILDREN'S toy library is celebrating its tenth year of keeping youngsters amused.

When it was first established a decade ago this week, Newton Hall Toy Library, within the main library branch, was run by volunteers.

It has since been taken over by the Julie Graham Children's Charity, and now has its own co-ordinator and about 70 members.

Toy library co-ordinator Janet Chazot said it provides a valuable resource for the local community.

"It's open twice a week, from 1pm to 2.30pm on Tuesday and 11am to 12.30pm on Friday and the annual membership fee is £3," she said.

"Children usually take out two toys at a time, and keep them for about three weeks.

"The idea is that they can test things out to see if they would actually use them, then parents might buy them."

The library's toys range in size from rattles to bikes, and it caters for babies and children up to the age of seven.

Anyone wishing to work as a volunteer in the library can contact Ms Chazot on 0191-386 2532.

Toy donations can be left at the building on Alnwick Road.