NEWLY-created shows have been commissioned for a popular annual arts festival in Stockton.

Visitors will be able to encounter some curious strangers, watch a watery tale created specially or the town centre's fountain or go on a quest to find a 'Tees Tusk' with a variety of puppets, at the Stockton International Riverside Festival.

Councillor Jim Beall, Stockton Borough Council's cabinet member for health, leisure and culture, said: “Newly-created shows commissioned for SIRF19 will compliment some carefully selected performances from across the world to bring a fresh slice of adventure and fun to Stockton town centre.

SIRF 19 takes place from Thursday August 1 to Sunday August 4.