NEW library facilities are being launched with a series of events to tie in with a town's annual community festival.

A multi-million pound library and learning centre opened its doors to the people of Houghton-le-Spring, Wearside, yesterday.

It is situated on the first floor of a development on the long-derelict site of the former Houghton Infant and Junior Schools, at the junction of Newbottle Street and Station Road, in the town centre.

The development, which has a 100 space car park, features facilities including a bank of computers available for use by the public.

It offers free Internet access, teaching areas and meeting rooms, and will accommodate activities including children's groups, homework and reading clubs.

A newly-formed local history group will meet on the premises.

As part of the celebrations to mark its opening, the centre will stage a variety of events to coincide with the annual Houghton Feast.

Excerpts from playwright David Farn's most recent work, Distant Sun, will be performed tomorrow, at 7.30pm. Admission is free.

Author and painter David Hughes will give a talk at the library on Monday, at 7.30pm, about his book, A Journey to Remember, on his career rising from shop boy to chief executive officer with the Co-op.

For details of the full programme call the feast hotline on 0191-553 6600.