THE Romans are set to make a dramatic return to Teesdale centuries after the last legions returned to Rome.

The Bowes Museum, in Barnard Castle, is to bring a taste of Roman Britain to its visitors with the help of North Country Theatre's latest production.

The theatre company will be performing their new play, Cartimandua, on July 1, which will feature costumes from the Roman period.

The play explores the colourful and fascinating life of Cartimandua, queen of the Brigantes, a northern tribe, who betrayed a rebellion, divorced her husband and took up with a charioteer.

Maintaining the Roman theme, the museum will be playing host to the North Guard Roman re-enactment group, which will be appearing as part of the museum's Art and Archaeology Family Day, on July 22.

Advance tickets for Cartimandua, which starts at 7.30pm, are available by ringing the museum on (01833) 690606. Tickets are priced at £6 for adults and £4 for children and concessions.

They will also be available on the night from 7pm onwards, priced at £7 for adults and £5 for children and concessions.

Family tickets for the Art and Archaeology Family Day, which runs between 11am and 5pm, can be bought at the museum on the day of the event, priced at £12.

For further information on events contact the Bowes Museum on the number above.