A NEW funfair billed as the largest event of its kind in the North-East has been unveiled.

The nine-day extravaganza will be staged at Herrington Country Park, in the shadow of Penshaw Monument, on Wearside, following talks with Sunderland City Council and months of planning.

The announcement follows the cancellation of The Hoppings in Newcastle, but is a completely separate event.

Co-organiser Colin Noble said: “It will be the largest funfair in the North-East in 2013. We hope to make it a success the first time round."

The event, featuring more than 100 attractions, will run from Friday, June 21 to Sunday, June 30.

Sunderland City Council leader Councillor Paul Watson said: “The fair will coincide with the Sunderland Armed Forces Day which is also being held at Herrington Country Park from June 28 to 30, and although separate, the organisers are working together to ensure the two events complement each other.”