THE talents of young artists in Hartlepool are to be celebrated with a new event.

A week-long Hartlepool Youth Arts Festival aimed at people aged 12 to 24 is being planned for next June.

Hartlepool Borough Council aims to work with a number of organisations, including Cleveland College of Art and Design, Hartlepool College of Further Education and the town's secondary schools.

Funding of £40,000 has been secured by the council from the Tees Valley Single Programme, but the search is now on for a major sponsor. A bid is also to be made for a grant from the Regional Arts Lottery Programme.

The festival will feature activities focusing around the town's Church Square area, culminating in a weekend of street theatre and bands.

Colin Reid, the council's arts and museums officer, said: "Hartlepool is very strong on the arts in education.

"As home to the textile and theatre design departments of Cleveland College of Art and Design, the town has a wealth of young creative talent, with many students hailing from other parts of Britain and abroad.

"The new festival will aim to build upon this by encouraging more young people to become involved in a wide range of arts activities that develop and enhance their creative talents and interests."

Potential sponsors who would like more information can contact Mr Reid on (01429) 523441.