TICKETS are still available for a star-studded open-air musical event taking place in the region this summer.

World-famous tenor Ian Storey will be heading the bill at the Picnic in the Park, at Hurworth Grange, in Hurworth, near Darlington.

Mr Storey, originally from Chilton, County Durham, will make a rare appearance in the North-East at the show and will be joined by soprano Suzannah Clark, from Normanby, near Middlesbrough.

The event has been organised by Hurworth Community Association and Durham Federation of Women's Institutes.

It will be compered by two Hurworth residents - Peter Barron, editor of The Northern Echo, and BBC TV reporter Jim Knight.

The event hopes to attract musical fans from across the North-East, as well as people who want to enjoy the atmosphere of the outdoor party.

Sponsors Reg Vardy, Alpha Romeo, BT and DK Kitchens have all pledged support to the event, on Saturday, July 6.

Tickets cost £10 in advance, or £14 on the night, for adults. Children aged five to 15 will be charged £6 in advance, or £8 at the gate.

Tickets are available from Williams Music Shop, in Blackwellgate, Darlington, on (01325) 466224, Hurworth Grange, on (01325) 720840, Durham Federation of Women's Institutes, at 51/52 Crossgate, Durham, on 0191-384 2041, and from Darlington Tourist Information Centre.