TICKETS have gone on sale for two nights of opera in the grounds of a Teesdale castle.

Opera Brava is performing Puccini's La Boheme and Bizet's Carmen in the walled garden at Raby Castle, near Staindrop, next week.

Raby Castle is the only location in the North of England to take part in the tour.

Catherine Turnbull, from Raby Castle, said: "We are very excited about hosting the two operas within the gardens.

"This is a unique opportunity to enjoy opera, sung in English, in a relaxed atmosphere with the superb backdrop of the castle.

"What better way to spend a summer's evening."

La Boheme is being performed next Friday and Carmen is next Saturday. Gates will open at 6.30pm for picnics.

Tickets cost £20 for adults and £10 for children and are available from the castle gift shop and Teesdale Mercury shops, or by calling (01833) 660202 or 660541.