DARLINGTON by the Sea returns at the end of this month as part of a programme of events planned for the school holidays.

Part of the Market Square will be turned into a beach from July 26-28.

And the Head of Steam's summer programme features family activities every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday during the school holidays as well as a series of Time Travel Tuesday events when 'That History Bloke' transports visitors back in time to different periods in history at the end of this month. Youngsters can also meet Chase from Paw Patrol as part of a family fun day on Sunday, July 22.

And sport fans can take part in the Castles Ride – a cycle ride –on Sunday, August 5 or the Darlington 10K on August 12, along with the Junior 3K for ages eight to 14, as well as a family fun run for all ages.

Summer markets, the popular annual Growing Older Living in Darlington tea dance, and the Darlington Rhythm and Blues festival are also over the summer as well as a range of sports activities, including intensive swimming lessons, at the Dolphin Centre. For more information find the #LoveDarlo events leaflet on www.darlington.gov.uk/events or follow on Facebook @LoveDarloUK