A historic North East fair which has delighted visitors for over 100 years has this year been forced to reduce in size following damage to its site by heavy rain last season.

The iconic Hoppings fair is set to make a triumphant return to Newcastle's Town Moor next week (June 21) for a ten-day extravaganza filled with a multitude of rides and attractions.

However, the scale of the fair has had to be reduced this year due to rain damage caused to the site but organisers say 90% of the rides will still be in place and it will retain its title of Europe's largest travelling fair.

A giant 60m high wheel will also be featured this year for the first time and visitors will also be able to enjoy another first - the only XXL white knuckle ride in the UK.

The ride – the ultimate experience for thrill seekers – has a G-force pendulum and swings up to a height of 47m.

Despite a reduced number of rides and stalls, bosses are still hopeful that attendees will not be disappointed.

Ryan Crow of Crow Events which organises The Hoppings, said: “Because of the damage done to the Town Moor through the terrible weather last year, we have had to rethink slightly for this year,” he said.

“We have done our best to ensure that the majority of rides and attractions will be in place as usual and we will still have absolutely tons on offer for everyone.

“We have had to make a minor reduction in some areas because of the challenges caused by the rain last year and its knock-on effect on the moor, but as far as we’re concerned it’s absolutely business as usual.”

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The fair will be opened by the Lord Mayor of Newcastle on Friday 21 June and then will begin its ten-day stint, with a later opening until 9pm on its final day.

The event is free to enter but all rides are priced individually.

You can find out more about the event here.