ORGANISERS of Ferryhill Gala are hoping the event will become an established event on the town's calendar.

The third annual gala takes place in Ferryhill Market Place on Saturday and Sunday. The event was established to celebrate the millennium, but proved such a success that the programme was extended last year.

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

Town council executive officer Jamie Corrigan said: "Over the two days last year we had an estimated 5,000 people come and we are looking for something similar again."

An all-day fun fair will be held in the Market Place on both days. An exhibition by Ferryhill History Society will be running in the town hall and the e.caf is hosting an art exhibition.

On the Sunday there will be a stage with entertainment running throughout the day as follows:

11am - Fun dog show.

11.30am - Children's fancy dress.

12.15pm - Ferryhill Brass Band.

1.30pm - Music from Rhythm Method.

2.30pm - Ian Pyle's On Your Toes dancers.

4pm - Music from Rhythm Method.