THE fear of creepy crawlies is a thing of the past at a North-East primary school.

Youngsters who previously loathed spiders, snails and other insects have put their terrors behind them, thanks to reassurance offered during a visit by insect experts.

As part of National Year of Science celebrations, a week of activities is being staged at Durham's Framwellgate Moor Primary School.

Youngsters are learning about about the physical, biological and chemical world during the varied science week.

It has included sessions from Scottish spider and insect specialists Zoolab.

Science week co-ordinator Diane Buckle, the deputy headteacher, said the children are leaving lessons arachnid-friendly after their tuition from the Zoolab team.

"We had them all day yesterday and today and the children have been fascinated.

"It's just one of a number of activities we've arranged to give the children an interesting introduction to the science world."

Events continue tomorrow with a visit by university astronomer Simon Morris, with his mobile planetarium, allowing the children day-long glimpses of the constellations to be viewed in the night sky.

Groups of pupils are also visiting the neighbouring comprehensive, Framwellgate School, to make use of its laboratory facilities, while members of the county schools' dental and nursing services have also been giving talks to children about their various fields of expertise.

The week of events has been arranged in conjunction with Gail Poulfrey, of Durham Business Education Team.