HUNDREDS of volunteers were given their chance to shine at a fun day yesterday.

The Volunteers In Action day was held at Parkside School and Community Association, in Willington, to coincide with National Volunteers Week.

Wear Valley District Council and 2D, the support network for the voluntary and community sector, put on the event.

Visitors were treated to stalls and demonstrations including cheerleading, tai chi, gymnastics and circus skills.

Nigel Douthwaite, community sports club development officer, said one of the aims was to show how young people would not thrive in sports without the support of volunteers.

He said: "We recognise that we could not have as many sports clubs without the volunteers to run them.

"Today has also given children the opportunity to take part in lots of activities that they would not normally take part in and has given them the chance to link up with some of the sports clubs.

"We don't have much problem attracting the kids, but the parents don't realise they can get involved. They don't need to be sporty but they can help with anything from offering lifts to washing kits.''

The event helped emphasise the importance of a healthy lifestyle, which The Northern Echo, Wear Valley District Council, Durham Dales Primary Care Trust and Northumbrian Water are promoting through the Chance to Live campaign.

An awards ceremony also recognised efforts by volunteers throughout Wear Valley.

Lindsay Wright, Wear Valley volunteer co-ordinator, said: "Each of the volunteers has been given a certificate thanking them for all their help today and all their efforts throughout the year.

"Groups have also been given silver plates which can be used to reward small groups or individuals for their efforts.''