THE Romans are muscling in on the Queen's Golden Jubilee celebrations weekend.

Mounted cavalry, armoured legionaries and gladiators will show off their skills as part of an action-packed Roman Festival on Sunday and Monday, June 2 and 3.

Corbridge Roman Site will stage the colourful activities, with the scene being set each day by the Silures Iron Age Society telling the tale of Boudicca, Queen of the Iceni, who led a revolt against Roman rule in Britain.

Celtic warriors, armed with swords, spears and shields, will join her in a valiant attempt to overthrow the invaders, who are represented by members of the Roman Military Research Society, the End of the Roman Age Society and horseback display duo, The Troop.

More peaceful aspects of the Roman occupation will be portrayed by the ancient world's first "celebrity chef", Apicia Gavia, while storyteller Tanya Bentham will recount tales of gods and goddesses, mortals and monsters, and mystery and magic, on the Monday only.

Events begin at 11am on both days, with admission to the site, off the A69 in Northumberland, £4.50 for adults, £3.50 for concessions and £2.50 for children.

There is no charge for under-fives and English Heritage members.

Tickets can be booked, on 0870-333 1183. Further information is available on (01434) 632349.