A CHARITY lecture on the genre of pantomime will be given next month.

Laurence Sach, who writes as a drama critic for The Northern Echo and directs productions for the Castle Players, in Barnard Castle, will speak at the event at Headlam Hall, near Gainford, County Durham.

The lecture is entitled Pantomime: A Very English Tradition.

Alongside a lunch, the lecture is set to be held on Monday, November 6, from 11.30am until 3.30pm and is in aid of The Art Fund - a charity that assists museums and galleries to buy works of art.

In his lecture, Mr Sach will trace the origins of the pantomime, explore its influences and development through the centuries and provide and insight into what he calls an "enduring seasonal entertainment".

Tickets cost £40 and include coffee on arrival and two-course lunch with a glass of wine.

Art Fund members and non-members are equally welcome.

Tickets can be reserved from Lesley Taylor by calling 01833-650789 or emailing lesleytaylor9@btinternet.com