THE Bishop of Durham has criticised the large amount of money wasted on wars instead of fighting disease.

In a clear reference to events in Iraq, the Very Reverend Michael Turnbull expressed his anti-war views in a message to concert-goers.

The bishop had planned to attend a concert at Durham Cathedral on December 3 to raise funds for three cancer charities.

But, because he has been called to Lambeth Palace in London on that day, he wrote a message for the programme.

In his message, the bishop praised the efforts of cancer charities in fighting disease.

He said: "Ideally, our governments should be spending the billions they currently waste on high-tech wars on fighting disease instead.

"But while they still drag their feet, we need to show them the way."

This is not the first time the bishop has criticised the war in Iraq. In March last year, he told anti-war protesters in Newcastle that the conflict could not be morally justified on the available evidence.

Caroline Peacock, co-manager of the County Durham Macmillan appeal, said it was grateful for the bishop's support and the donation which he had made.

She said: "His extremely generous personal donation reinforces his message very firmly."

Readings at the event will be given by Sunderland-born journalist Kate Adie, Look North presenter Carol Malia and the Duchess of Northumberland.

Proceeds will be go to the County Durham Macmillan appeal, Marie Curie Cancer Care and St Cuthbert's Hospice, in Durham.

Tickets, costing between £8 and £30, are available from Durham Tourist Information Centre, Millennium Place, Durham, on 0191-386 1170.