DRAMA students are to take to the streets this weekend for a coffee-themed play which will raise money for charity.

Members of Durham University Treasure Trap are to stage three comedy street performances on Saturday in Durham Market Place while raising money for St Cuthbert’s Hospice.

The short play has been written by Michelle Faber, owner of Merry Monk Coffee in the city’s Indoor market, and tells the tale of a monk’s quest to spread the word about the humble origins of the world’s greatest coffee.

She said: "I hope the event will provide entertainment for a lot of people in Durham on that day whilst raising money for a very worthy cause.

"I realise this is something new for the city, but hopefully people will come along, experience some live theatre and re-enactments and really enjoy themselves.

"We have great performers coming from DUTT and I can’t thank them enough for making this event happen".

The play is inspired by the legend that modern-day cappuccino was invented by a 6th Century Cappuchin monk.

Performances are free and start at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.

The 1pm performance will be attended by the new Mayor and Lady Mayor of Durham, Coun Les Thomson and his wife Lucille.