SPOOKY entertainment is planned for children in the run-up to Halloween.

The creative talents of primary school children will be put to the test in a variety of events at the Castlegate Shopping Centre, in Stockton, during the half-term holiday.

Events have been organised for the last week of the month, to stimulate young minds and reward their hard work.

There will be an art competition for all local primary school children and winners' work will be displayed in a vacant outlet in the centre until Saturday, October 29, when entries will be judged.

The age groups for the competition are three to seven, and eight to 11. Winners and runners-up will receive gold, silver or bronze medals.

Many entries have already been received for this competition and the closing date is Friday.

As a bonus, a free half-term Halloween craft workshop will be open, between 11am and 4pm, on Saturday, October 29, when youngsters can learn from teachers, take part in face-painting, or watch stilt-walkers.

Throughout the day, all shops in the centre will be giving away leaflets for a free draw, when prizes, such as shopping vouchers and gifts to the value of £300, will be given away.

To enter, shoppers have to answer a simple question and put their entry in a designated post box outside Wilkinsons store, in Castle Way Mall.