Darlington by the Sea returns!

Slap on some sunscreen and dig out your bucket and spade – the beach is coming to town as Darlington by the Sea returns!

Tonnes of sand will be delivered to Market Square ahead of the event which starts on Monday July 24, creating a clean, safe beach to build sandcastles, dig holes and bury dad’s feet.

The beach will be open Monday to Friday, from 11am to 5pm, with deckchairs and beach toys available to complete the seaside atmosphere.

There will be live entertainment from Tom Rolfe and Urban Kaos, as well as free face painting and crafts. There will also be fairground rides for a small charge.

Thanks to sponsorship from local Vauxhall and MG dealer Drive Motor Retail, this year’s event will run for five fun packed days rather than the usual three and there will be extra free buckets and spades available too!

Chris Wilson, general sales manager at Drive Darlington, said: “We are delighted to be sponsoring Darlington by the Sea. At Drive we know how important it is to support the local community and a free, family event like this is a perfect opportunity for us to do that.

“It's fantastic that our support has meant that the event can be extended for two more days and I hope lots of people of all ages will come down to soak up the seaside atmosphere.”

Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy, said: “Darlington by the Sea is always a popular event and I am delighted to see it return.

“I know for some families a trip to the coast isn’t always easy and so it is great to be able to bring the beach to everyone in Darlington.”

Photo: Dan Breen and Chris Wilson from Drive Motor Retail get in the seaside mood