AMERICAN Independence Day was celebrated today (Thursday July 4) at the North-East ancestral home of George Washington’s family.

Washington Old Hall, Washington Village, near Sunderland, joins in the festivities every year.

This year marked the 50th anniversary of the famous “I have a dream” speech by black civil rights leader Martin Luther King.

Activities and events were organised by Washington School, the Friends of Washington Old Hall and The National Trust in partnership with Sunderland City Council.

They included a reading from the American Declaration of Independence by the Chair of Sunderland Youth Parliament, Daniel Alcock, a reading of Martin Luther King's 'The Dream' by Martyn Foster from Broadway Junior School, and music provided by the 'City Swings' band. The American National Anthem and the Battle Hymn of the Republic wereboth be sung, led by Washington School's Glee Club.

A highlight was children from Springwell Dene School, John F Kennedy Primary School, George Washington Primary School and Broadway Junior School. performing words and songs around the theme of George Washington's writings.

Leader of Sunderland City Council, Councillor Paul Watson said: "Sunderland is rightly proud of the unique historic connection it shares with Washington DC, the capital city of America, and greatly values this very important friendship.”