A DOUBLE civic reception has been planned to celebrate Durham County Cricket Club's double-winning success.

The team, which has just recorded the most successful season in the club's 125-year history, is to be honoured with civic receptions by both Chester-le-Street District Council and Durham County Council.

The back-to-back celebrations are to take place on Monday (oct 1) to mark the club's triumph in winning their first silverware in the form of the Friends Provident Trophy in August and the Division Two title in the NatWest Pro40, as well as finishing runners-up in the county championship.

The star-studded squad and coaching staff, along with chairman Clive Leach and chief executive David Harker, will arrive at the Civic Heart, in Chester-le-Street at 1pm to meet fans and sign autographs for schoolchildren, with entertainment provided by Chester le Street Youth Brass Academy.

After a 45-minute appearance, the team will then leave for Durham County Hall, where they will be welcomed at 2.15pm by Durham County Council Chairman, Coun Edna Hunter, where there will be a second signing session with invited schoolchildren.

Mr Harker, said: "The team has performed to the highest standard this season and for their achievements to be recognised by Chester le Street District Council and Durham County Council is a great honour.

"The receptions also give Durham fans the opportunity to come along and celebrate the team's success."

Coun Allen Humes, chair of Chester-le-Street District Council, said: "We are delighted to host this event in Chester-le-Street's Civic Heart to celebrate Durham County Cricket Club's excellent performance this season.

"I think it's quite fitting that we've also invited local schools to attend, for they represent the next generation of champions. Hats off to the cricket club's players and staff, they've been exemplary of true professionals."

Coun Hunter said the club thoroughly deserved the success it was currently enjoying.

She added: "It has fought its way up from being the 'new boy' of First Class cricket to a point where it is now one of the most respected clubs, with one of the finest grounds and some of the very best players in the game.

"Its achievements have not only brought great credit to County Durham and to the North East, but have given us worldwide publicity and a new focus of pride."