THE Romans are returning to the region - but this time the invaders come in peace.

Roman soldiers, musicians and craftsmen have made the Durham Light Infantry Museum and Durham Art Gallery, in Durham City, as their target, but will be visiting for educational purposes only.

The Return of the Romans exhibition will explore life as it was in Roman-era northern Britain through weapons, armour and artillery, including a giant cross bow and a catapult.

Visitors will be able to try weapon- handling and cavalry skills, and Roma Antiqua will stage a battle between Romans and barbarians on August 18 and 19.

Artefacts unearthed at dig sites including East Park, in Sedgefield, will also be on display, along with information about established sites such as Chester-le-Street fort, Binchester and Piercebridge.

Alongside the exhibition, which runs from tomorrow to September 2, there will be workshops, starting on Monday, including Roman sculpture, mosaic-making, games and painting.

Families can drop in for ten minutes or stay for full workshop sessions, from 1.30pm to 3.30pm. Under-11s must be accompanied by an adult.

Usual museum admission charges apply. For details, call 0191-384-2214.

. . . and Vikings on the march

THEY used to brave North Sea storms to get to their pillaging destinations, so the miserable summer should hold no fear for the Vikings.

They will be taking over Whitby Abbey, North Yorkshire, from tomorrow, for a week-long celebration of Norse life.

Children will be able to try their hand at Viking drill and learn about the weapons and defences of the era, watching the theory put into practice at noon each day, when small scouting parties of Vikings will meet their Saxon foes in battle in the main arena - a precursor to the main battle at 3.30pm.

A Viking Invaders comedy show by the Inner State Theatre Company will be staged daily, at 11.30am and 1.30pm.