A LEADING orchestra is to launch a series of classical concerts in Middlesbrough.

The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra will perform under the baton of Barry Wordsworth, principal conductor with the BBC Concert Orchestra.

Their programme will include Stravinsky's Firebird Suite and Tchaikovsky's violin concerto.

Other treats will include the Polish National Symphony Orchestra, the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra and the Hague Philharmonic.

Visiting soloists will include cellist Tim Hugh, violinist Jack Liebeck and pianist Michel Dalberto.

Judith Croft, Middlesbrough Council's entertainments and events manager, said: "We are delighted to welcome the cream of national and international orchestras to Middlesbrough town hall.