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Families in South Tyneside are being encouraged to get active this Easter.

The Council is reminding families that a booklet featuring seven walks around the Borough is available to download. The walks take in some of the prettiest or most historical parts of the Borough in areas as such South Shields sea front, Whitburn, Boldon Colliery, Hebburn and Jarrow. The booklet includes maps, helpful information such as whether the walks are suitable for pushchairs/wheelchairs and family fun activities to keep little ones entertained. The walks can be downloaded from www.southtyneside.gov.uk/holidayclub  for more information.

Anyone who would benefit from a free picnic pack is asked to contact KEY2Life on 07833 613 393 or get in touch via their Facebook page: @key2lifesouthtyneside. People can also call Hebburn Helps on 0191 489 9707.

Families can also keep their little ones entertained by tuning in to Channel 7 on Freeview over the Easter holidays where Tyne and Wear TV will be broadcasting engaging content for schoolchildren. A breakfast show for youngsters aged four to eight will run between 7am and 8am, a half hour lunch time show will be for nine to 12 year-olds and an evening show for 13-16-year olds will run between 7pm and 8pm.  The programmes will cover topics such as cookery, PE, horrible history, music, wellbeing and dance.

A leaflet will be given to schoolchildren at the end of term detailing the activities on offer  and signposting where families can access inspiration for nutritious recipe ideas.

Councillor Moira Smith, Lead Member for Children, Young People and Families, said: "We recognise that families face additional pressures at the moment as a result of the pandemic.

"That is why we have put together some ideas to help families stay healthy, happy and entertained over the Easter break. There are organisations which can support those facing hardship while there are plenty of free fun activities on the doorstep. If the weather is kind I would encourage families to make the most of their together time and get out into the fresh air and see what our beautiful Borough has to offer."

The Leadership at Â鶹ÊÓƵ has identified support for families and more vulnerable communities as one of its key priorities.