SHOPPERS visiting the Gateshead MetroCentre over the bank holiday weekend will be able to step back in time with the relaunch of one of its most popular shopping areas.

The Village, which has been redeveloped, recreates the ambience of a traditional English village. To celebrate the launch, staff have prepared a weekend of events, featuring village characters Billy Boy, PC Paddy and Freda the Farmer's Wife.

There will also be live music from Shepherd's Hey, an acoustic trio performing a variety of country and village music.

MetroCentre general manager Ron Woodman said: "We are delighted with the The Village and it signals the first in a series of redevelopments at the centre, all aimed at making it an even more pleasurable experience for all the family."