LEISURE chiefs have unveiled a fun package of activities to compensate residents disappointed at the cancellation of a popular family festival.

The Allensford Festival, which attracts thousands of visitors, was due back this August Bank Holiday after a two-year absence - but was then called off because of fears about traffic on the busy A68.

Derwentside District Council directed its leisure services section to prepare a weekend of fun and family entertainment, using the Blackhill and Consett Park and the Empire Theatre as venues.

Council leader Alex Watson said: "The council was extremely disappointed at having to concede to the cancellation of the Allensford Festival and wants to make sure there are a number of events on offer in and around Consett over the Bank Holiday weekend. The focus will be on family entertainment and will provide an exciting period of free and reasonably priced activity in the town."

The programme will be heralded by a free firework display accompanied by movie themes and searchlights, organised by pyrotechnics specialist Alan Hillary, of Shotley Bridge.

The display in the Blackhill and Consett Park at 9.15pm on Saturday, August 23, will be preceded by entertainment for children from 7.30pm.

Mr Hillary, who has co-ordinated displays for high profile events such as the Tall Ships race and the Turning the Tide project, said: "This will be the only event I've ever organised where I will be able to walk home. I am thrilled to have been asked."

Scottish Children's Theatre company The Happy Gang will appear at the Empire Theatre at 2pm on Sunday at the 'giveaway' price of £2.

An ecumenical church service will be held in the park's bandstand at 6pm, while a Lark in the Park will be staged there on the Bank Holiday Monday. Admission is £3, with supervising adults and children under three allowed in free.

Tombraider2 - The Cradle of Life - has been secured on release to run at the Empire from Friday next week for one week, before moving to the Lamplight Arts Centre in Stanley.

Programme details for the Empire can be obtained from (01207) 218171.