A WEEK of fun activities for all the family has got underway.

The Market Place Activity Week in Chester-le-Street, now in its eighth year, offers bouncy castles, a climbing wall, rodeo bull, jousting-style contest, inflatable maze and slides, assault course and bungee run.

There is also face painting, stalls, and storytelling.

The event is co-ordinated by Durham Police, but also involves the other emergency services, YMCA, Royal British Legion, Check 4 Life with its health bus and others.

Local groups and businesses sponsor the week, which began today (Monday, August 17).

Activities will continue in the Market Place every day until Friday (August 21), from 10am to 3pm. The event is free and open to all.

PCSO Adrian Richards said: “Over 20,000 people attended last year’s activities and we hope people of all ages will come along and enjoy what’s on offer during the week.

“So many people and organisations have lent their support, which we are really appreciative of. This enables us to include so many attractions.”