YE olde chivalry, duels at dawn and foolhardy court jesters are the latest tools in an effort to brighten up boring business conferences at a North-East castle.

Medieval-themed conferences will soon be on offer at the 12th Century Walworth Castle Hotel, as its new owners hope to bring back the age of knights in shining armour in their search for ways of attracting business.

The events could see the introduction of an official conference jester, or fool, to reduce tension and stress among delegates.

With many companies using outdoor courses and other activities to boost morale at such conferences and weekend gatherings, Chris and Rachel Swain, who bought the hotel earlier this year, decided to do something different.

Their plans feature wooden stocks, so mock punishment can be dished out to misbehaving or inattentive delegates and early morning duels - using paintball weapons - for settling disagreements between senior management.

Visitors to the castle, at Walworth, near Darlington, will also be encouraged to follow the rules of medieval chivalry, to ensure the best relations between male and female participants.

Meetings could also take place in the 34-room castle's dungeon, which has 50 seats, with flickering candles, smoking coffins, rattling chains and replica skeletons.

As well as the medieval themes, there is also a chance to enjoy murder mystery events, and castle capers, a fantasies selection which includes Barons and Maidens, Drink Like A Lord, Chastity Belts and living the Knight Life.

"You can do medieval banquets, where they haven't got knives and forks, but metal, plates and you eat with your fingers, like they did in the olden days," said Chris.

"Certainly, the conference market is something we are trying to promote and we are trying to get a slice of that."