The Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) is inviting families across the North East to join them at their annual Bank Holiday family fun day.

Helifest is on Monday 31 August and will bring together emergency services, local businesses, live entertainment, food vendors and plenty of activities for visitors of all ages.

The event is taking place from 11am to 4pm at GNAAS’ headquarters at Progress House, Urlay Nook Road, TS16 0QB, and the field adjacent to it.

Parking, including disabled parking, is available on site, with stewards on hand to help visitors find their way around.

Entry costs just £1 per person on the door, with all funds raised going towards GNAAS and helping the charity continue its life-saving work across the region.

Around the site, families can explore a huge range of attractions, from giant inflatables and a climbing wall to soft archery and charity games. Nearby, the popular Gosling Raptors display will also return, giving visitors the chance to see magnificent birds of prey up close throughout the day.

For food and refreshments, the Food Plaza will offer plenty of choice, from burgers and street food to coffee, ice cream and sweet treats; perfect for grabbing lunch or enjoying a relaxed afternoon with family and friends.

Visitors can also browse Stall Central, a bustling hub of local traders, gifts, sweet treats and unique finds from independent stallholders.

The Emergency Services Zone will give children the opportunity to get up close to emergency response vehicles and learn more about the incredible teams who help keep communities safe.

There will also be live music, performances and entertainment throughout the day.

At GNAAS’ headquarters there will be the chance to see the helicopter up close, learn about the specialist equipment carried on board and meet members of the critical care team who help save lives across the region.

Places are limited for helicopter tours and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Visitors can also take a break at the charity’s coffee house Hangar 63 which will be open during the day serving a variety of food and refreshments.

For more information about Helifest visit GNAAS’ website here: https://www.greatnorthairambulance.co.uk/support-us/fundraising-events/helifest/