YOUNGSTERS from the area gathered yesterday to learn about keeping safe during the summer.

Representatives from the police, ambulance, fire service and coastguard were at Darlington's Railway Museum to present a safety message to children and their parents.

The event was organised by Sure Start, a Government initiative aimed at giving the under-fours the best possible start in life.

One of the specific aims of Sure Start is to reduce accidents, and so the emergency services agreed to support yesterday's event.

The project invests money in education, social activities and other agencies to help young parents and their children.

As well as the safety initiative, visitors to the Railway Museum yesterday enjoyed carousel rides, craft workshops and a range of entertainment.

Organisers held the event to raise the profile of Sure Start among young families who could benefit from it.