A MEDIEVAL house and gardens attraction has become an enchanted fairytale world for young half-term visitors.

But a combination of the lure of fairytale theme days and the good Bank Holiday weekend weather left all concerned at Crook Hall, in Durham, rushed off their feet.

Record visitor numbers flocked to the 13th Century manor house and adjoining gardens, just up from the banks of the River Wear, half-a-mile from the city centre.

Younger visitors were able to catch a glimpse of Little Red Riding Hood and a leashed Big Bad Wolf, visit Snow White's magical room, follow the Yellow Brick Road to a treasure chest, leave their wish on a wishing tree, or search for a troll under the Moat Pool bridge.

Hall owner Maggie Bell said visitors often describe it as a "magical place" and so it seemed appropriate to hold a fairytale week.

"It's proved a big success, but with the weather being so good it's been hectic, both on Sunday and today," said the exhausted owner last night.

"We had so many here on Sunday I had to resupply our stocks before re-opening today, and it's been another bumper day.

"We were very disappointed by the weather last year. But if this is a sign of things to come we're in for a busy year."

The Fairy Tale Week, at Crook Hall, off Sidegate, runs until Thursday. For prices and information, call 0191-384 8028.