A VILLAGE fair has been resurrected following a year off because of the foot-and-mouth crisis.

The summer fun day at Mainsforth Sports Complex, Ferryhill, was established in 2000 and proved such a success that organisers hoped to make it an annual event.

Ferryhill Station and Chilton Lane Ward Residents' Association, which organised the first event, has joined forces with Ferryhill Town Council, Mainsforth Cricket and Sports Club and Sure Start Ferryhill and Chilton for this year's family day out.

The free fun day on Saturday, starts at 11am, and attractions include activities organised by Darlington Football Club, six-a-side football competition, show rides, a children's entertainer and face painting.

Cricket lovers will have the chance to watch Mainsforth's match against Esh Winning, which is taking place at the same time, and there will also be a bowls match.

The event coincides with the opening of the new Sure Start play area for children at the sports ground.

Gladys Hall, of the residents' association, said: "This is a free event for local people and we hope they all have a really good day."