NATIONAL Play Day will be marked next week with a free, annual event in Hartlepool to highlight a child's right to play.

The theme is Fit for Play and the fun gets under way at 1pm on Wednesday, August 3, and continues until 3.30pm

Activities include face painting, craft sessions, Playbus, bouncy castle, storytelling walk, Million Mile Challenge, guess your time fun run and much more.

Asda is supporting the event and will give away free fruit to promote healthy eating.

Tracy Liveras, Hartlepool Borough Council's young people and play co-ordinator, said: "It is important that all children take part in regular play activities.

For more information, call (01429) 523411 or 523471.