A FESTIVAL of music, film and fun will be staged on the east Durham coast at the weekend.

Thousands of people are expected at the Seaham Carnival, which gets underway on Terrace Green tomorrow (Friday).

The free event, organised by Seaham Town Council will begin with the screening of Footloose at 6pm and Billy Elliot at 8pm.

Saturday will include the children’s film Alvin and the Chipmunks at noon, followed by the Seaham Music Academy playing Star Wars, before the Star Wars The Force Awakens is shown at 3pm. All those coming along have been invited to dress up for the occasion.

The evening will feature a host of live bands, with Rabble Rousers starting at 5.15pm.

The Antics will take to the stage at at 6pm, followed by Remould at 7pm and Mandora at 8pm. The evening will conclude with an appearance of Pink Floyd tribute band Shine One, along with a stunning light display, from 9pm to 10pm.

Deputy town clerk Paul Fletcher said: “We also have additional attractions at the Seaham Marina.

“There will be free kayaking sessions, with entertainment provided by the Trimdon Brass Band.

“On the Sunday there is live music from noon, through to 10pm.

“Groups include tribute bands to Louis Armstrong, The Eagles, Little Mix, Adele and Dire Straits and Stereophonics.”

Throughout the weekend there will be free climbing wall and penalty shootout on Terrace Green, along with the usual fairground rides and local stalls. For the first time, there will be a craft marquee and food stalls,