AN extraordinary double bill is offered at the Witham Hall in Barnard Castle on Sunday, September 21 at 7.30.

Nancy Kerr and James Fagan, winners of the best duo at the latest BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, are joined by the barnstorming band 422, winners of the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Awards in 1999.

Kerr's earthy and exquisite fiddle and viola playing dances with the striking rhythmic texture of Fagan's guitar-bouzouki, while their rich singing, both as soloists and in harmony, evokes the stories of the songs they choose and write, say the organisers.

The energy and talent of 422 is described as a powerhouse of varied folk music from all over the planet, including Sweden, Canada, Ireland, Scotland and the members' native Northumbria and North Yorkshire

The band features Emily Ball on fiddle, Sophy Ball on fiddle and foot percussion, Joey Oliver on whistle, Ian Stephenson on guitar and Sam Pirt on accordion.

Tickets for the concert cost £5, concessions £3, and are available from the Witham office between 10-noon on weekdays, or by telephoning 01833 631107.