A LEADING County Durham children's writer is bringing the curtain down on his roadshow looking at bizarre aspects of Christmas.

Terry Deary, author of the best-selling Horrible Histories children's books, is teaming up with Ronan Paterson, of Byker Grove fame, for the two Horrible Christmas shows at the dli - formerly the DLI Museum and Durham Art Gallery - at Aykley Heads, Durham, on Saturday, December 15.

The author said the performances will help bring down the curtain on the roadshow, which looks at the "bizarre and plain batty facts that surround Christmases past and present".

The shows, at 11am and 1pm, are based on his book and are aimed at family audiences aged eight and over.

"The show includes silly songs, terrible tales, deadly drama, quick quizzes, potted pantomime and a lot of audience participation.

"After the dli performances it goes to Bishop Auckland Town Hall on Wednesday, December 19, before closing forever.

"This will be the last chance to see Horrible Christmas - ever," he said.

Only 90 tickets are available for each show at the dli. They are on sale at £3.50, with concessions at £2.25 and £1 for season ticket holders.