"EGG-CITING" EASTER ACTIVITIES PLANNED IN SUNDERLAND...

A range of spring characters are about to be brought to life, as part of Sunderland BID's programme of activity next month (April).

With the Easter holidays looming, parents worried about how to keep their youngsters happy can take them on an egg-citing trail around Sunderland city centre and also enrol them in some creative craft sessions.

Along with being able to use the Sunderland Experience app to find the seven augmented reality figures hidden at key locations, visitors are also encouraged to visit six giant eggs which will be taking up residence in city stores.

Harrison & Brown Furniture at Holmeside, Geek Retreat at John Street and Derwent Street's Designer Childrenswear will each have one of the five feet high eggs, as will Wilko at Fawcett Street, Empire Cinema and the Bridges.

The eggs - which will be in place from 2 - 30 April - will each feature their own unique design, but all around an Easter theme.

The AR trail can be found via the free app, which can be downloaded via the app store and will also give participants the opportunity to unlock a range of discounts and special offers for outlets across the city centre.

A number of spring and Easter themed free workshops for youngsters have also been lined up to keep children entertained at a variety of locations.

Pop Recs at High Street West will be hosting sessions from 10am until 1pm on 9 and 23 April, with Betsy Jenny Wellbeing Café at Bridge Street running its workshops on Tuesday 12 April and Thursday 21 April, both from 10am until 1pm.

Geek Retreat is also supporting the events, with its classes being held on Thursday 14 April and Tuesday 19 April, from 11am until 2pm.

Sharon Appleby, Chief Executive of Sunderland BID, believes the virtual and real aspect of the trail will mean there will be double the fun for both adults and children.

"School holidays are often a difficult time when it comes to keeping youngsters occupied," she said.

"The trail is something that people of all ages can enjoy and is absolutely free and we hope lots of families will also take advantage of the creative craft sessions.

"We want to encourage everyone to go out and about in Sunderland over the Easter break and support local retailers, attractions and restaurants as much as possible."

For further information on all the events visit www.sunderlandbid.co.uk