A DURHAM county councillor will be joining the band of volunteers for what is destined to be the UK’s biggest ever outdoor night-time theatrical event.

Joy Allen, County Councillor for Bishop Auckland, is so keen for people to volunteer for the Eleven Arches project that she is taking the plunge herself.

The £27m historical drama, whose stage and lake are currently being built on the banks of the River Wear in Bishop Auckland, will depict 2,000 years of North-East history and include full-size boats and a 400m-wide stage.

The plucky people’s representative will be auditioning at the final interactive ‘mix and match’ casting event this weekend, which runs tomorrow (Saturday, October 10) between 1pm and 2.30pm and 3.30pm to 5pm.

The sessions will combine auditions, a movement session and time to get to know one another. Roles include everything from combat fighters to costume makers, technicians, landscapers and welcome hosts.

Mrs Allen, who has personally backed the project through its formal planning and licensing committee stages, said: “This is a significant investment that has the potential to change the fortunes of Bishop Auckland for the better.

“Like all those other hundreds of volunteers both young and old, I want to demonstrate my support and commitment in making this the best show in the country. It will really put our town on the map.”