THE Queen's Jubilee Baton Relay will visit Bishop Auckland and Darlington today, with organisers promising a memorable celebration to mark the occasion.

The baton is due to reach Bishop Auckland at 4.20pm before travelling on to Darlington at about 6.55pm.

It will remain in the town overnight before departing for North Yorkshire tomorrow.

The baton, which contains a message to be read by the Queen at the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games, in Manchester, is on a tour of the country to celebrate the golden jubilee.

During its journey from Newcastle, via Bishop Auckland, to Darlington today, the baton will travel 71 miles and will be on the road for just over eight hours.

The runners who will carry the baton have all be nominated to reflect their work in the community or in the world of sport.

People of all ages and from a variety of backgrounds will carry the baton around Bishop Auckland and Darlington, with each carrying it for approximately 200 metres.

Many have been chosen as a reward for tireless community work or fundraising. Others have overcome illness with bravery.

Duncan Bannatyne, Darlington-based owner of a growing chain of fitness centres, will carry the baton along the A6072.

In the past two years, Mr Bannatyne has raised more than £150,000 for the United Nations' children's fund's (Unicef) work in Romania through his health clubs and. He is also also a supporter of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.

Also carrying the baton on one of the 200 metre legs will be John Waterson, from Darlington, who was diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy in early 1996. He has taken part in the Darlington Fun Run for the past three years to raise awareness of the illness.

Later on, Hannah Russell, also from Darlington, an 11-year-old who has overcome cerebal palsy with determination and courage to lead an active life, will take up the baton.

The final runner of the day will be Paul Hamilton, of Darlington, a bowls world champion who has helped to stage international matches in the town, which have been broadcast on Sky Television.

This evening, a special celebration will take place in Darlington to welcome the baton, featuring the Ray Blackburn Samba Band and performances by pupils from St Teresa's Primary, Firthmoor Primary, Skerne Park Primary and Hurworth Comprehensive schools.

Tonight's entertainment will begin at 6pm