Swimming, climbing and Air Trail: free holiday activities on offer for eligible children across the Borough

The sessions include a variety of options such as swimming and climbing, as well as TV-inspired 'Strictly Children Dancing' and 'Mini Apprentice - You're Hired'.

Each activity is available for free for any children aged five to 16 who live in Stockton-on-Tees and are in receipt of benefits-related free school meals.

It's all thanks to the Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF), led by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council in partnership with the Department for Education.

Anyone eligible can take a place for up to four weeks of activities over the summer holidays, which also includes a meal each day.

Councillor Lisa Evans, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: "This is a really brilliant opportunity for our young people to take part in a whole range of activities.

"There's absolutely all sorts on offer, ranging from looking at taking care of our planet with 'climate crusaders' to ice skating at Billingham Forum, kayaking and horse riding.

"We know how important it is for children to have a go at new things and learn new skills, as well as having a healthy meal each day.

"The activities on offer can help the children make friends, be active and most importantly have a great time!

"There are more than 6,000 places available, but they are on offer on a first-come, first-served basis so please book in your child as soon as you can if you're eligible."

You can find out more information by emailing haf@stockton.gov.uk or calling 01642 527626.