A RARE turban goes on display this weekend as part of an exhibition on the North-East’s Sikh community.

The Sikh ‘fortress turban’, usually housed at the British Museum and one of only five of its kind in the country, goes on show at Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens on Saturday (August 23).

Such headdresses were once worn by skilled Sikh warriors to protect the head and hold weaponry, although this particular turban was made for ceremonial purpose.

This distinctive symbol of Sikh faith and history is part of a wider exhibition on Sikh culture, which continues until November 16.

The exhibition, organised in partnership with Sunderland Gurdwara and Durham University’s Oriental Museum, will also include free family craft activities and turban tying demonstrations on Wednesday, August 27 between 11am and 12:30pm, and 1:30pm and 3pm.

Councillor John Kelly, Sunderland City Council's Portfolio Holder for Public Health, Wellness and Culture, said: "One of our city's many strengths is its diversity of communities.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to get to know more about the history of the Sikh community."