A SWEET and colourful character with batty tongue twisters and ridiculous riddles came to town today (Monday, June 30), to promote the what is thought to be region's biggest street performing arts festival.

Madame Bonbon, created by London theatre company Cocolco, bemused shoppers with her comical routine on Stockton High Street.

The act, which amused with pointed innuendos and verbal wit, was in town to advertise the Stockton International Riverside Festival which begins on Thursday, July 31 and ends on Sunday, August 3.

Cllr Ken Dixon, Stockton Council’s Cabinet Member for Arts, Leisure and Culture, said: “Madame Bonbon is just one of the many fantastic acts at Stockton International Riverside Festival this year. With more than 100 shows over four days, there will be a huge range of spectacular theatre, music and dance for everyone to enjoy.”

Madame Bonbon will perform on Saturday, August 2 at 1pm and 6pm, and Sunday, August 3 at1pm and 4.30pm. This year there will be up to 30 shows per day from noon to 11pm. To find out more and see the full SIRF programme visit sirf.co.uk