A TOWN is to celebrate its heritage with a cast of hundreds, including 250 schoolchildren, a pop idol finalist and a little help from Dr Who.

A day-long festival has been planned for Chester-le-Street next Saturday, to promote the town's heritage.

It will culminate with a show chronicling the history of Chester-le-Street played out on the lawns of Lumley Castle.

The drama, More Than A Street, has been written by Chester-le-Street composer George Hastings and former Dr Who actor Colin Baker.

He agreed to write the script for the musical after being approached by Mr Hastings and will also be narrating the show. But in this drama the time travellers will be a group of children who see for themselves how St Cuthbert's body was brought to Chester-le-Street and how Romans shaped their town.

More than 200 children and a full orchestra will be involved in the show. Also making an appearance will be Tyneside Pop Idol contestant Aaron Bailey, who will be singing two new songs written by Colin Baker.

Peter Darrant from Lumley Castle Hotel said they hoped the event would bring the town's rich heritage to people's attention.

He said: "It's the first time we've worked with Chester-le-Street council to promote the area. When people visit the North-East they think of Durham or Newcastle, but we have so much history here. The bible was first translated in Chester-le-Street and St Cuthbert's body was here for 100 years before it was moved to Durham."

Celebrations take place throughout the day and involve street performers parading through the town centre.

Tickets to the show at Lumley Castle are £10 and allow people all-day entry.

Tickets can be brought from Chester-le-Street District Council or Lumley Castle Hotel on 0191-3891111.