A SPECIAL crafts day is planned for tomorrow – to herald the Spring re-opening of the Standedge Tunnel.

The longest canal tunnel in the UK re-opens its doors again after its winter shutdown.

And the arts and crafts fair at the adjacent Standedge Visitor Centre is the first of around 30 special events planned throughout the year.

A host of Easter activities have been planned, including ‘Make an Easter Fascinator’ and some tasty Easter egg trails perfect for the kids. Returning favourites including a falconry day, Artsfest and a St George’s legging event will also be showcased during the April and October season.

A new venture at the Visitor Centre will be The Creative Hub @Standedge Loft Space within the grade II listed visitor centre warehouse, which is being run by Green fusions.

It will offer designer-makers the chance to book a workspace for the day.

Throughout 2012, the loft space will feature a whole range of creative workshops and give visitors the chance to join in sessions in knit, crochet, read and sew sessions on a drop-in basis.

James Dean, visitor services manager for Standedge Tunnel said: “The tunnel trips, café and children’s playground create a really welcoming family atmosphere here and our visitors always love the tunnel trips as it’s so different to many other family days out.

“Our tunnel guides really bring it to life with tales of the ‘navvies’ who constructed it, the dangers they faced and how they overcame the challenges building it.”