FIVE days of free fun for families will take place later this month.

Around 20,000 visitors are expected to take part in Activity Week In Chester-le-Street, which will be based in the town’s Market Place starting on Monday, August 14.

There will be around 40 attractions aimed at families from Chester-le-Street and surrounding villages, while market stalls will be open every day.

The annual event was set up 11 years ago and is run by PCSO Adrian Richards and colleague Christine Taylor.

The police-supported initiative aims to give children something constructive to do during the summer holidays, to keep young people out of trouble and give them education and exercise.

Charity Police Mutual has put £900 into the project, including £500 from its national community sponsorship programme, Force for Good.

PCSO Richards said: “I hope all the families that attend the event enjoy the 40 attractions and markets that are open for a whole week.

“Police Mutual’s Force for Good grant will be spent on bringing one large piece of equipment to the event.”