Chester-le-Street's Riverside Park will be transformed into a tented village this weekend as the curtain rises on one of County Durham's biggest festivals of the year.

The theatrical extravaganza Playfest 2000 sees professional players from all over the country entertaining children of all ages.

Running alongside the event will be Greenfest, Chester-le-Street District Council's environmentally friendly festival.

Playfest festival-goers will get the chance to meet the cat with three names, travel on a perilous journey with Little Star and explore the world of myths and legends about the rivers Derwent, Wear and Tees.

Bill Lightburn, the council's community leisure manager, said: "Last year more than 12,000 people attended the festival over the weekend and we are hoping for even more visitors this time."

As well as being packed with performances Playfest also offers arts and crafts activities, a traditional funfair and displays.

Greenfest, designed to promote Chester-le-Street's Agenda 21, which is aimed at improving life in the district without damaging the environment, will also run alongside the festival.

Marquees and three yurts (Mongolian tents) will house Greenfest activities, which will include craft workshops, wind and alternative therapies, cycle-repair workshops, traditional bread-making and storytelling.

Council leader Malcolm Pratt said: "Greenfest demonstrates some of the excellent work going on in the district to promote Agenda 21."

The fun was kicking off with a parade by 150 school children in fancy dress through Chester-le-Street on Friday, followed by the official start of Playfest on Saturday. It runs from noon to 5.30pm on Saturday and Sunday and tickets are available from Chester-le-Street Civic Centre, Leisure Centre and the Riverside Sports Complex.