Schoolchildren to get sneak peek of Festival of Light

Invited Sunderland schoolchildren will enjoy a special preview evening of the Festival of Light next week.

Young people who attend one of the city's SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) provisions or have an Education Health Care Plan (EHCP) in a mainstream school, are being invited along to experience the festival before anyone else on Wednesday 12 October

The children and their families can attend the invitation-only event at a time when the park is quieter to ensure that they have an opportunity to enjoy the Festival of Light regardless of their needs.

Families are asked to contact their school to find out if they are eligible to receive tickets.

Sunderland City Council's Cabinet Member for Vibrant City, Councillor Linda Williams, said: "It is fantastic that we can invite children and their families along for a first look at the much-loved Festival of Light.

"We want the Festival of Light to be an experience that everyone can enjoy, so it's important to make sure that nobody is excluded from visiting because of their needs. This invitation-only night is a great opportunity for families to visit when its quieter and enjoy the lights in their own time."

A 'quiet hour' is also available to book from 4pm - 5pm on 13, 20 and 24-30 October (half term) for families wanting a more relaxed experience.

Paula Wooton, co-chair of Sunderland Parent Carer Forum, said: "Sunderland PCF are delighted that those children and young people with the most complex needs are able to enjoy this event and are pleased that we have been able to work with the organisers to make sure it is as accessible as it can be. We hope everyone who attends this special evening and all the other evenings has a wonderful time"

The Festival of Light will run every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday until Saturday 13 November, and will open every day over half term, week beginning 25 October.

To book tickets or find out more information, visit https://www.mysunderland.co.uk/fol

Tickets are £3 per person and discounts are available for groups of three or more, with free entry for children under two.