ORGANISERS of a youth festival in Hartlepool are expecting more than 2,000 people to take part.

Music, drama, dancing, films and art will be on offer during the festival, which will run from Saturday, June 21, to Sunday, June 29. Called Word of Mouth, it will celebrate the creativity of 12 to 24-year-olds across the Tees Valley.

Events at the festival, which has been organised by Hartlepool Borough Council, include a day of cult youth films, an open air performance of Romeo and Juliet and a street festival.

Stuart Drummond, Mayor of Hartlepool, said: "I'm absolutely delighted that Hartlepool is organising and hosting this important new festival which will celebrate the great variety of talent which our youngsters possess."

For details about the festival call (01429) 869706. A leaflet about the full festival programme will be available in the coming days.