BARNARD CASTLE has begun to turn pink in support of the dale’s Cancer Research supporters.
A host of events kicked off Turn Barney Pink, which runs until Saturday, October 22.
Children from Montalbo Primary School, in Barnard Castle, have raised almost £4,000 through a sponsored Race For Life.
It is the first time the school has held the Cancer Research UK event, and teacher Jessica Richardson, who organised it, said it was timed to coincide with the Turn Barney Pink campaign.
She added: “Everyone from nursery to year six is taking part.”
The school field was festooned with balloons, bunting and banners, and members of the Teesdale branch of Cancer Research UK were on hand to dish out medals to each child.
Pam Ashmore, of the branch, said: “The fantastic amount of nearly £3,080 was given to me on the day and there is still a more to come in.”
After the event, she said another £800 had been added to the kitty.
“The children looked fab in their pink outfits and glittery faces. Many thanks to the headteacher Chris Minikin, organiser Jessica Richardson and all the staff for their support,” added Ms Ashmore.
“We would like to thank everyone involved and remind everyone to support our Turn Barney Pink campaign and all the events around it.”
On Saturday, members of the Startforth-based Affinity Choir were in fine voice with two performances at The Witham.
The choir was formed in January and meets on a Tuesday evening at Startforth Community Centre, accompanied by a live band and under the direction of leader Jane O’Byrne-West.
She said the choir was on the look-out for more singers and the repertoire covered popular music.
Elsewhere, shops and homes around the town have been decorated and will be judged later this week.
Tonight, Wednesday, there is bingo at Barnard Castle Cricket Club at 7.30pm. Admission is £3 and those taking part are encouraged to wear pink.
On Friday, staff at Kyle Travel will hold a bottle draw, which runs throughout the weekend, and on Saturday, October 14, artist Jo Pickering will lead a Sip and Paint session for children up to 12 from 10am to noon at The Old Well. In the afternoon, Andy Yeadon will perform at the pub.
