NORTHERN Echo readers have the chance to win tickets to next Tuesday's Royal Gala Concert attended by the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh.

It will take place at Newcastle City Hall at 7pm and will be hosted by celebrated Seaham-born baritone Sir Thomas Allen.

The diverse programme provides an insight into the breadth of musical experiences that Music Centre Gateshead will bring to the region when it opens next year, and includes Northern Sinfonia, Folkworks, The Swing Bridge Singers and pianist Imogen Cooper.

Kathryn Tickell, acclaimed for the haunting beauty of her Northumbrian pipes performances, and saxophonist Andy Sheppard will round off the evening with a performance of Music for a New Crossing.

This was commissioned by Music North to celebrate the Gateshead Millennium Bridge and was first performed live in September last year on the bridge. They will be accompanied by members of Young Sinfonia.

Anthony Sargent, general director of Music Centre Gateshead said: "The heart of Music Centre Gateshead's vision is about celebrating today's greatest musicians while training and developing the musicians of the future, and encouraging tomorrow's young talent.

"This programme headlines major talent from our region and beyond, while also showcasing four exceptional youth ensembles whose energy and talent, in their different ways, will all be vital to Music Centre Gateshead's future."

Tickets cost £12, £25, £40 and £55. Some are still available from the freephone box office on 0800 953 0070.

The Northern Echo has six pairs of tickets, worth £55 each, to give away. To enter the competition, simply call us today with your name and contact telephone number. The first six callers will win. The number is (01325) 505078 and lines close at noon. The winners must collect their tickets from the City Hall box office before 5pm on Tuesday.