A NORTH-EAST audience will be taking part in the world's largest musical event next month.

Cellist Julian Lloyd Webber said: "I hope that as many local people as possible will support this classical music charity concert, part of the Voices for Hospices musical extravaganza taking place across 40 different countries in the world."

The regional event has a classical theme and performers at the Newcastle concert include the All Saints Chamber Choir, Newcastle Cathedral Choir and Durham Sinfonia.

Julian, the brother of musicial impresario Andrew Lloyd Webber, said: "Edward Marsh will conduct the orchestra, while Scott Farrell will play the organ.

"I will perform a cello concerto and soprano Fabienne Borget will be joining to make this a night to remember."

The global event is held every three years to help hospices to raise funds.

The last international event in October 2000 involved 43 countries and raised at least £1m for hospices and palliative care services.

This year, Tyneside property consultant Sanderson Young has joined forces with solicitor's McKeag's to sponsor a North-East contribution to the worldwide event. Funds raised at the Newcastle concert will go to St Oswald's Hospice, Gosforth, and Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Tickets priced from £10 to £29.50 are still available for the concert to be held at Newcastle City Hall on October 3.

The box office can be contacted on 0191-261 2606.