Preparations are well underway for an event in Darlngton aimed at local businesses that want to become more sustainable.

The new Darlington Sustainability event is taking place on Friday and Saturday, June 2 and 3, from 11am-4pm.

Organised by Darlington Borough Council, the event is also aimed at the general public who can also find out more about living a more sustainable life.

Visitors to the free event will get the chance to make a bike-powered smoothie, power a Scalextric race, and enjoy a crazy bike session in the market square.

Guided bike rides with Sustrans will also be available along with a fix your bike clinic.

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If cycling has worked up an appetite, there’ll be a range of vegan food stalls and producers on hand.

For motorists considering a switch to electric vehicles, there will be a wide range of electric cars from local dealers including Vertu Motors, Lookers, Drive Cars and Teesside Audi covering models from Vauxhall, Nissan, MG, Skoda, Cupra and Citroen; experts will be on hand to offer advice.

Sustainable fun continues indoors with wooden arts and crafts, library displays, a chance to meet Darlington Beekeepers Association and the team from Acorn Dairy, sustainable bridalwear and many more.

Charities and community groups will also be there including the Woodland Trust, Tees Rivers Trust, Sustrans as well as furniture recycling and Living Woods North East.

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Local businesses who are keen to find out more about the benefits of becoming more sustainable can browse a range of stalls to get more advice and ideas as well as network with likeminded businesses.

More details of the council’s work to become carbon neutral and how people and businesses can get involved can be found at: www.darlington.gov.uk/sustainable