FROM the Cut-throat Celts to the Blitzed Brits, 2,000 years of horrible British history are being brought to life during the summer holidays.

The Horrible Histories Funfair of Fear is based on the books of best-selling County Durham author, Terry Deary.

The exhibition, which starts today, will run until September 9, at the dli Museum and Art Gallery in Durham City.

In the guise of Victorian fairground proprietor Dr Dreary, the author explores the past in a series of sideshows, stalls and curiosities.

The exhibition includes all the favourites from Mr Deary's books and among the attractions are a coconut shy with the heads of Henry VIII's wives and a midget marionette Queen Victoria.

There will also be a chance to test out Celtic curses, visit the knightmare castle and riddle the runes.

Mr Deary will be at dli every Saturday from August 4 with his Terry Deary Roadshow, featuring jokes, songs, stories, poems and role-plays.

The exhibition features local material, including mass murderer Mary Cotton's teapot, and the interactive Deadly Durham Games, devised by North-East artist Sharon Wilson.

A Deadly Durham booklet, written by Mr Deary and illustrated by David Boyes, has been produced to guide people to places in the city where deadly deeds have occurred.

Tour guides will be given on the booklet, starting from the main door of Durham Cathedral each Sunday throughout August, at 2pm.