SCOOTERS large and small were wheeled out for a stint in the sun at a national rally at the weekend.

Hundreds of scooters were turned out for the national Lambretta Rally, at Witton Castle, near Bishop Auckland, when bikes of all shapes and sizes were brought along by their proud owners.

The event included a gymkhana which saw owners compete over an obstacle course, a show for customised scooters, and, on Friday and Saturday nights, bands such as Skaville took to the stage.

Parked among the gleaming classic and vintage scooters were equal numbers of people carriers and family cars.

There was a strong family presence, with many attractions aimed at children.

Kevin Walsh, from the Lambretta Owners Club, which organised the gathering, said: "There were more families there than individuals. Scootering seems to be taking a new turn again. I think we're moving towards a new era."