THOUSANDS of people are expected to attend the annual Ferryhill Gala at the weekend.

The town's Market Place will come alive on Saturday and Sunday for an event which is now in its fourth year.

Originally organised to celebrate the millennium, the gala was so popular that it has become an established fixture on the town's social calendar.

This year's free gala, organised by the Ferryhill 2000 committee and Ferryhill Town Council, starts on Saturday, at 10am.

An all-day funfair will be held in the Market Place on both days, as well as children's entertainer Mr Twister, face-painting, hair weaving, a history society display and various activities in the e.caf.

There will be extra rides on Sunday, as well as a stage with entertainment running throughout the day.