HALF-TERM should not prove a headache for parents in one area of the North-East.

Leisureworks, the trust for sport and the arts in north-west Durham, has lined up a packed programme of activities for the week-long school break.

A new event this half-term is a music and drama project, run in conjunction with The Sage at Gateshead and arts company Base Jump.

The two-day course, open for children aged eight to 16, begins at The Lamplight Arts Centre, in Stanley, on Tuesday.

Costing £12, or £8 for a second child place, it runs from 10am - 4pm, on both days.

Several trips have been arranged suitable for young people or family groups.

Destinations include: Beamish Museum, in County Durham; Blue Reef Aquarium, at Tynemouth; Forbidden Corner, in North Yorkshire; plus, Manchester United and Manchester City football stadium tours.

There are also several kids’ days out, aimed at children aged ten upwards, giving them a chance to try horse riding, canoeing, rock climbing and other activities.

All trips include return travel as well admission to the venues, where applicable, with prices starting from £3.

Halloween will be marked with a Monster Mash, featuring party games, fancy dress and disco dancing, a live show and prizes, also at The Lamplight Arts Centre, on Thursday, from 6pm, costing £8.

Blackhill and Consett Park stages a spooky skeleton excavation, on Friday, from 10am - 3pm, and Halloween in the Park, featuring Dr Who characters, including a dalek, on Sunday, from 4 - 7pm.

Entry is free to all park activities, although some activities may incur a cost.

Further information on any of the events is available via www.leisureworksonline.co.uk or by ringing (01207) 218899.