A VILLAGE fun day which attracted large crowds at the weekend could become an annual event.

The summer fair at Mainsforth Sports Complex, Ferryhill Station, was established in 2000, but was called off last year because of the foot-and-mouth outbreak.

This year's event was organised by Ferryhill Station and Chilton Lane Ward Residents' Association, in conjunction with Ferryhill Town Council, Mainsforth Cricket and Sports Club and Sure Start Ferryhill and Chilton.

Attractions included a six-a-side football competition, face painting, a visit from Darlington Football Club, show rides and a children's entertainer.

There was also the chance to watch Mainsforth's cricket match against Esh Winning.

The day coincided with the opening of the Sure Start children's play area.

Ferryhill Mayor, Councillor Ken Campbell, and Sure Start manager Carole Dawson opened the play area, which was build in partnership with the town council and Thompsons quarry.

Ferryhill Town Council executive officer Jamie Corrigan said: "Mainsforth Sports Complex is a superb facility, but one of the things we were getting feedback on was that there was nothing for the kids to do, so we've put in £35,000-worth of equipment."

There was also a surprise presentation for Bernie Davies, who organised the successful football tournament.

Gladys Hall, of the residents' association, said: "It all went very well, the weather was good and it couldn't have been better.

"We were going to make it an annual event when it was called off last year, but we were asked by the cricket club if we would do it again and, hopefully, we'll have it every year."