PREPARATIONS are underway for a heritage and community festival at the weekend.

The annual Washington Heritage and Community Festival will return to Albany Park tomorrow.

The event will include a full schedule of activities ranging from musical group performances, historical army drills, craft activities, and theatre performances.

A performance marquee will stand at the heart of the action, hosting a wide and exciting array of showcases from both professional and community groups. Between performances visitors are invited to try their hand at several historical outdoor activities such as archery or army drills, and take advantage of the wide range of on-site food and drink vendors.

Deputy chair of the Washington Area Committee, Councillor Linda Williams, said: "We are again delighted to be staging this popular annual event.

“Now in its fifth year the celebration of the rich history of Washington helps bring our community together by highlighting the heritage we share.”

Sunderland Live, who are organising the event on behalf of Sunderland City Council, have asked festival goers to keep an eye open and camera at hand for a range of surprise performances throughout the day.

Sunderland Live chief operating officer Chris Alexander said: “We are delighted to once again be involved with the Washington Heritage Festival.

“Events like this are vital to keep long held traditions alive and it promises to be a fantastic day for all who attend.”

The festival will begin with a Miners’ Banner Parade stepping off from the Washington Gardeners Social Club at 10.30am before marching on to Albany Park to mark the start of the day’s activities.

For further information on this and all Sunderland Live events visit sunderlandlive.co.uk.