A NEW pre-school play area has opened at Locomotion, in Shildon.

The National Railway Museum has launched its new indoor pre-school area for both parents and toddlers which is open daily.

The new area includes a selection of pre-school toys, books, puzzles and games alongside the giant Connect 4 game for older kids.

Older children can also get dressed up in period costume in the new interactive dressing up area, which can be found by the pre-school area.

The facility kicked off its half term events with its annual Meccano Magic today (May 25).

Other activities include a free animal themed collage-making craft session for families from tomorrow (Tuesday, May 26) to Sunday, May 31, between 10am and 4.30pm.

Younger visitors can enjoy seeing children’s character Captain Barnacles, from the Octonauts, on Wednesday, May 27, at intervals throughout the day.

Animal Story will be giving children the chance to view and handle creatures on Saturday, May 30, and Sunday, May 31.

The Holiday Station, a holiday club for children aged eight to 11 is also being introduced from tomorrow (May 26) to Friday.

Two sessions are available, the first from 9am until noon and 1pm to 4pm.

Sessions cost £10 and must be booked in advance by calling 01388-771439.

Admission to Locomotion is free from 10am until 5pm.