ARTS and music lovers are being invited to take part on a journey of discovery when east Durham stages its own cultural odyssey.

As the culmination to a year of preparation, artists from the region will present a display of performing, visual and spoken arts.

Easington Arts Odyssey promises a kaleidoscopic mix of painters, poets, musicians, drama groups and dance troupes. To round off the cultural celebrations, residents will be treated to a free feast of visual arts.

The show, which has been produced and directed by John B Kirtley, will be staged at East Durham and Houghall Community College in Peterlee on Thursday, March 29, from 7pm to 11pm.

Musical entertainment will be provided by Easington Colliery Band, The Rye, The Durham Street Refugees, Murton Colliery Brass Band, soloist Tony Maitcham, The Fisk Trio, Haswell Folk Club and children from Haswell Primary School.

East Durham Youth Theatre will appear alongside Northern Lights Youth Theatre, Greenhaff Dance School, Peterlee Youth Theatre, poet Ian Horne and actor/writer David Whitaker.

The event is free and includes wine and nibbles, invitations are available by telephoning 0191-527 0501.

Artists will include Edward Armstrong, Joe Brett, Joe Chater, George Crawford, Dawson Elliot, Andy Wright, Colin McQuillan, Angela Sandy, Marguerite Elliot, Edna Robinson and Mary Russell. Works of art will be on display from Tuesday, March 27, to March 30, from 8am to 9pm, and from 9am to 1pm Saturday, March 31.