BORED youngsters can look forward to a summer of fun in Worcester.

The city council has announced its annual Summer in the City programme packed with sports, arts, crafts, trips out, wildlife, live theatre and music.

Worcester Garden Centre, in Droitwich Road, is holding a Scarecrow Festival from Friday, August 30 until Sunday, September 1.

Budding thespians can watch actors treading the boards at The Commandery in a host of outdoor shows, including Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet and Richard III.

Daredevil tightrope walkers and stiltwalkers will be entertaining city shoppers on Wednesdays and Saturdays during August.

At Nunnery Wood Sports Complex, would-be gymnasts can try out their skills, trampolines will be on offer, as will tennis coaching sessions, basketball, karting, hockey - and the Nunnerylimpics.

Day trips from the complex are due to include bird sanctuary Slimbridge and The Cotswold Farm Park in Gloucestershire, Birmingham's Think Tank and seaside fun at Weston-super-Mare.

Chocolate fans can even indulge themselves at Cadbury World.

Serious coaching sessions for budding sports stars will also be on offer in netball, badminton, hockey, cricket and girls football at the Nunnery complex and St John's Sports Centre, where circus skills, parachute games and discos will all be laid on.

Drama

Perdiswell Leisure Centre, on Droitwich Road, is running Camp Adventure throughout next month, in association with Glendale Leisure, to offer youngsters team games, swimming, music and drama, and arts and crafts.

Youth centres and museums across the city are also running sessions.

Amanda Smith, leisure development officer for Worcester City Council, said the events are due to begin next Monday, July 22.

"Summer holidays can be a trying time for parents juggling to keep their children entertained for six weeks," she said.

"However, rescue is at hand with a jam-packed bundle of activities which will give mums and dads the chance to unwind, too."

Summer in the City, a free 18-page guide packed with information and ideas aimed at helping families make the most of the break, is available from all city council offices and venues running events.

Copies can also be obtained by telephoning 01905 722315.