A FORMER clothing factory that stood empty for almost four years has been brought back to life as a fairytale castle.

The disused Susie Radin plant, in Crook, has been reopened as a children's activity centre called Crackerjax by sisters-in-law Claire Renwick and Shelley Armstrong.

The pair, who are both mothers, felt there was a lack of play provision in the area so seized the chance to meet the demand of young families themselves.

Mrs Renwick, of Crook, and Mrs Armstrong, of Low Fell, near Gateshead, have taken on 13 members of staff and are planning a car park extension and more organised activities.

The interior of the unit has been decorated as a storybook-style castle and through each archway lies a party room, slides and climbing equipment, areas for younger children and a cafe.

The unit also has games consoles and there are plans for a computer room to host homework clubs and an indoor football and basketball court for coaching.