A DAY at the cemetery may not be the most obvious of pastimes, but one local authority is promoting one of its burial grounds as the perfect family facility.

Middlesbrough Council hopes to attract those with an interest in the town's history to a series of events taking place at Linthorpe Cemetery.

And it claims that the ancient area, far from being a ghouls' paradise, is a jewel in Middlesbrough's heritage crown.

A talk was held yesterday in the cemetery, which dates from 1869, by local historian Jenny Braddy.

She guided a group of 30 people around the area's many points of interest, including the graves of some of Middlesbrough's most famous sons.

Tansee Cartwright, Middlesbrough Council's Community Action Officer, said: "There is a lot happening in the cemetery at the moment, and the 'Friends' are planning a number of projects for the coming year, including a Christmas memorial service with the local community.

"The cemetery is part of our heritage and its important that you know where your roots are from."

If the council's bid for more than £1m of Lottery money is successful, it hopes to encourage even more visitors to the site by carrying out environmental improvements and restoring the Lodge House off Burlam Road.

Two of yesterday's party, Diane and Gordon Pargeter, said they felt taking an active interest in the cemetery was worthwhile.

"This is the second time I've come on a tour like this and the first one was just so interesting that I told my husband he must come on this one," said Mrs Pargeter.

"I think it's a good idea for children to come here to learn about the town and to get a sense of our heritage going."