A GIANT xylophone made from railway sleepers is helping youngsters in Wear Valley to discover the magic of music.

Performers from the Jack Drum Arts group are touring play groups in South-West Durham with the giant instrument as part of a series of percussion workshops.

Professional musician Paddy Burton constructed the xylophone using a sophisticated electronic instrument to tune each sleeper individually.

By varying the size of the sleepers he was able to accurately create 12 musical notes - enough to make a xylophone capable of playing a tune.

"It is a great way to teach kids about music because they can all get involved," said Paddy, who is touring with his son Jack, 14, and Laura Emmerson, 15.

"Once the xylophone is set up it needs half-a-dozen or more people to play, so everyone can have a go."

The Jack Drum Arts group began 11 years ago when Paddy was asked to produce outsized musical instruments for use in the open air.

Based in Romaldkirk, the group has five members, all from the South-West Durham area.

Recently the group interpreted the Durham landscape in sight and sound for a display at Bishop Auckland Discovery Centre.

The percussion workshops, run for children under ten, form part of a programme of events organised by Wear Valley District Council for young people. Other schemes taking place include rugby coaching, a circus workshop, a craft workshop and self-defence classes.

The initiative was funded with a £33,000 Home Office grant awarded for initiatives to keep bored youngsters out of trouble over the holidays.

The schemes will run in Tow Law, Stanhope, Wolsingham, Rookhope, Frosterley and St John's Chapel.

For details contact Katy Beddow, at Wear Valley council, on (01388) 761541.