ORGANISERS of the Teesside Steel Family Gala are gearing up for this weekend's massive event.

The gala was cancelled last year when the venue, Kirkleatham Showground near Redcar, flooded and there was heavy rain on the day.

The big names appearing at this year's event, which is being held at Redcar Rugby Club, include The Kangaroos Gymnastics Display Team and the RAF parachute free-fall team from RAF Lossiemouth in Scotland.

On the ground will be the Mega Minis stunt show, West Lancs dog display team, a wild west show and a comedy double act. The TFM roadshow will be making its debut appearance at the gala, providing musical entertainment throughout the day.

The highlight of the event is expected to be a procession by ten Teesside schools, who have teamed up with local Corus plants to design and build floats. Themes include Little Shop of Horrors and 101 Dalmatians.

The procession will start at 11.30am from the Majuba Road car park, travel along the Esplanade, then the Coast road to Green Lane before arriving at the rugby club for judging.

The gala is open to the public and costs £3 for adults and £1.50 for children and senior citizens.