A NORTH-EAST fine-dining spectacular that raises thousands of pounds for good causes will celebrate its tenth anniversary in style.

The annual Oyster Festival at Hardwick Hall Hotel in Sedgefield, County Durham, has been delighting seafood fans since 2004 and is now a highly anticipated event on the region’s social calendar.

And this year, to mark its tenth anniversary, organisers have put together an exciting line-up of entertainment for the event on September 20.

Highlights will include comic pianist Kev Orkian who wowed the judges of Britain’s Got Talent, soul diva Diane Shaw, Celtic folk-rock band Wildcats of Kilkenny and talented trapeze artists who will perform in a big top style marquee.

Festival guests can also look forward to a three-course Fruits de Mer meal and drinks.

John Adamson, Managing Director of Ramside Estates, which owns Hardwick Hall Hotel, said: “The tenth anniversary of the Oyster Festival marks a great achievement, which is why we want to make it a fantastic occasion and celebrate in style.”

Fundraising will once again play a central role at the event, with organisers hoping to raise cash for the Newcastle United Foundation – a charity that uses football to make a positive different to the lives of disadvantaged children, young people and their families.

Over the last decade, the Oyster Festival has raised more than £450,000 for charities including the Foundation of Light, Marie Curie Cancer Care and the Brain and Spine Foundation Advanced bookings can now be taken. Contact 01740 620253 or email dawn.coates@hardwickhallhotel.co.uk