ASPIRING artists and spirited sewers welcomed the Commonwealth Games with a riot of colour and creativity.

Brightly coloured banners have been created by adults and children in Darlington to mark the start of the Commonwealth Games, in Glasgow, tonight (Wednesday, July 23).

The banners were created at the town’s Crown Street Library at a number of sessions hosted by textile artist, Sarah Oatley.

Mrs Oatley, who runs her business, Drawn Threads, at Lingfield Point, said: “We had all sorts of people come down. Some stayed for the whole two hour sessions, while others stayed for just a few minutes.

“It was really lovely to see parents come down with their children because they wanted an afternoon activity that was creative.

“While I was there to give guidance, people were free to interpret the Commonwealth Games however they wished.

“Some of the children did sewing, while the younger ones did cutting and sticking. One girl came especially because she wanted to sew a gymnastics kit.”

The banners will be exhibited at the library at 2pm this afternoon (Wednesday, July 23) where prizes will be given for the best work.

For more information visit facebook.com/Drawnthreadsdesign or darlington.gov.uk