A MUSIC festival will reach its finale this weekend by bringing international sounds to east Durham.

Residents have been tapping their toes to a wide range of live acts since Easington District Council's music festival began early last month.

It will culminate in a world music weekend, which began with a performance by the acclaimed central African band Robert Maseko and the Congobeat last night.

The finale will be a colourful celebration of the Indian Festival of Lights, at East Durham and Houghall Community College, in Peterlee, from 6pm today.

The Northern Friends' Circle will present A Celebration of Diwali, offering the chance to see classical dance from south India and hear northern Indian instrumental music.

In addition to the Festival of Lights celebration, there will be performances by Glasgow-based blues band The Nimmo Brothers, at Murton's Glebe Centre; and Jez Lowe, at The Wayfarer, in Haswell.

Tickets are available from the main council offices, Seaham and Peterlee leisure centres and Peterlee Tourist Information Centre.