STOCKTON’S peculiar past will be the focus of a new initiative.

Next week, youngsters from schools across the town will take part in a walk that will highlight fascinating facts about Stockton’s history.

Musician Mike McGrother has worked with Stockton Business Improvement District (BID) to create the tour.

It takes in the town’s railway history as well as The Beatles’ legendary appearance at the Globe Theatre on the day President Kennedy was assassinated.

The walk will also introduce children to chemist John Walker, the Stockton man who invented the friction match.

Karen Hindhaugh, manager of Stockton BID, said: “The tour offers a great opportunity for young people to find out more about the area.

“There are some really interesting facts about its history and its heritage which will be highlighted.”

At least 14 schools will take part in the tours, which will run from Monday, April 24 until mid-July.