FAMILIES are being encouraged to learn new skills together.

Family Learning Week takes place between October 11 and 17 and is organised by charity Campaign for Learning.

Last year, organisations across the North of England held events including football coaching, circus skills, poetry workshops and card- making classes.

More than 400,000 people took part last year during a weekend of activities which has forced organisers to spread the events over a week this year.

Schools are specifically being asked by the CFL to organise events and take part in Take Your Family to School Day.

Regional director of CFL, Tricia Hartley, said: "We are calling on organisations across the North to join in, come up with an idea and register an event with us.

"They will be helping to bring the excitement of learning back to the communities."

To find out more about how to get involved in the fun visit www. familylearningweek.com or call 0870 350 2345.