VISITORS to an annual festival have raised more than £1,400 towards the restoration of a Victorian park.

While enjoying a weekend of entertainment at the Orange Darlington Festival, those who crowded into Darlington Market Square last year were also contributing to the scheme at South Park. A total of £1,478.31 was raised by people buying "party blowers" from the festival's Orange stand, entitling them to a small prize and with proceeds going to the appeal.

Darlington borough councillor Dot Long, cabinet member for leisure services, has received a cheque covering the amount from Mandy Philips, the firm's customer services manager, ahead of this year's festival.

Coun Long said: "The restoration project is a superb initiative. It will help restore the park to its Victorian splendour and will be a fantastic place for the people of Darlington to enjoy.

"It is pleasing to see how people visiting the festival have contributed."

This year, the festival, which is supported by The Northern Echo, will offer a chance to help raise cash for the Prince's Trust charity at the Orange stand.

Featuring street theatre, children's entertainment and live music, it takes place from Saturday to Monday, August 24 to 26, organised by the council and also supported by Century FM.