THE region's first wedding fair of the year was staged at a Durham hotel yesterday.

Businesses including bridal dress shops, cake shops, photographers, stationers, video producers and car hire firms gathered at the Marriott Royal County Hotel, in Durham, for the exhibition.

Although the hotel has long been established as a venue for wedding receptions, it was the first time it had held its own display.

Organiser Kathleen Tough, who owns Chantilly Bride, in Sunderland, said it was a success.

"I've been advertising this since August, and we've written to brides and had it on the radio and in newspapers," she said.

"Events like this are important because if a girl doesn't know how much things are, she can walk around and get an idea."

Mrs Tough's next fair takes place at Lumley Castle, from 1-5pm on Sunday, and admission is £1.50.