A MAJOR theatrical festival is urging attendees to pay it forward and donate tickets to those less fortunate.

The Jabberwocky Market will return to Darlington in March, bringing with it a varied blend of theatre suitable for all ages and interests.

Organisers are introducing pay-it-forward tickets which allow festival-goers to purchase an extra ticket for those who may not be able to afford their own.

Originating from a coffee-buying scheme in Italy, the idea allows people to buy tickets and leave them ‘suspended’ at the box office for others.

Festival producer Caroline Pearce said: “There is loads of research to show that giving makes people feel better, but lots of people don't have much to give.

“This is where pay-it-forward tickets come in - for the cost of one theatre ticket people can get the sense of helping others and we will allocate that ticket to someone who couldn't otherwise afford to come.

"Pay-it-forward tickets, at their best, can bring a contagious shot of happiness to the people of Darlington."

Pay-it-forward tickets can be purchased for all ticketed performances, taking place in Darlington between Thursday, March 26 and Sunday, March 29.

For more information, visit jabberwockymarket.org.uk or board the Jabbervan which will be sited in Darlington town centre from Thursday, March 12.