CHILDREN had an action-packed day yesterday to celebrate childcare in Darlington.

Youngsters and their parents attended a fun day at Darlington Rugby Club, which was organised to mark National Childcare Week.

Activities included competitions, face painting and Punch and Judy shows. Firefighters also attended the event to hand out safety messages.

The day formed part of a project to mark National Childcare Week in Darlington, which lasts until Sunday, and to acknowledge the efforts of the nurseries and play groups in the town, which offer 2,428 places, and the 116 childminders, who look after 618 children.

The Tourist Information Centre, in the Horsemarket, is hosting an art week for children and public buildings, including the town hall, the Dolphin Centre and Cockerton Library are displaying details about children's activities they have to offer.