A CATHOLIC seminary is inviting local schools to get to know exotic animals.

Ushaw College, set in 30 acres a few miles from Durham City, has trained generations of priests.

But now it hopes to open up to the community more and is looking to host various events including conferences.

Next month youngsters will be held to get close to, and learn about, creepy crawlies, including pythons, boa constrictors, water dragons, chameleons and tarantulas.

The college is inviting schools in the area to sign up for free sessions from Wednesday to Friday November 4 to 6.

"Experts will be talking about the animals and the children can look at , touch and hold the animals. It is educational but it is good fun as well,’’ said the college’s recently-appointed marketing manager Stephen Phillips.

On Saturday November 7 between 9.30am and 3.30pm members of the public will be able to see the animals. Admission will cost £3.50 to under-16s and £4 for over-16s.

Mr Phillips said the college wanted to promote itself as a venue for day and residential conferences and was hoping to stage events the public could attend.

Plans including a two-day Christmas fair, an antiques fair, summer fair, and concerts.

Mr Phillips said schools should call him on 0191-373 8579 to book a visit to the creep crawlies.