AN empty shop is to be transformed into a half-term play palace while raising money for sick children.

The Little Bishops Play Palace will open tomorrow (SAT) in a vacant unit at the Prince Bishops Shopping Centre, in Durham City, providing free play sessions until Sunday, February 23 while raising funds for the Treetops Children’s Ward at the University Hospital of North Durham.

Centre manager Richard Toynbee said: "We are always seeking ways to support local charities and the Treetops Children’s Ward is the perfect choice, especially as many events we run are aimed at young children and their families."