ORGANISERS behind an annual town gala are appealing to the public to help ensure this year's event is an even greater success.

The 52nd Spennymoor Annual Gala takes place next month and proceeds go towards a day-trip to the coast for the town's elderly.

Last year, organisers were able to send about 500 pensioners out for the day, complete with spending money.

The gala features charity stalls, car boot stalls, decorated floats, vintage vehicles and fairground rides.

John Culine, from the gala committee, said: "We need the help of Spennymoor people to dress up in fancy dress, get their kids involved.

"We need people to march in the parade. It's the 52nd year of the gala committee, and it goes longer than that when the football club used to run it.

"We will also be asking, once again, for the shops to decorate their windows to add to the build- up of this important day.

"We need the people of Spennymoor to enter into the spirit."

Charity tables are available during the event, priced £7 each, boot sale plots are £7 or £10, depending on size.

The gala's official opening will be on Thursday, July 5, at 6pm. For more information, call 01388-813856.