MILITARY bands will be beating the retreat next Friday to celebrate a royal birthday.

The event will take place on the Long Avenue, at Gibside, near Gateshead, and is traditionally performed on the eve of the Queen Mother's birthday.

The music will be performed by the Regimental Band of the Tyne Tees Regiment, the Pipes and Drums of the Tyneside Scottish and the Fifes and Drums of the 101 Field Regiment, Royal Artillery.

The audience are invited to take rugs and picnics for the 8pm concert.

Tickets, priced £15 adults and £7.50 concessions, are available on (01670) 773939.