THE region's two World Heritage Sites will hold a two-day celebration of their status this weekend.

Durham Cathedral and Castle and Fountains Abbey and the Studley Royal Estate in North Yorkshire were two of the first seven UK sites to receive World Heritage Site status back in 1986 and, along with the other five, are holding a celebration of the 30th anniversary.

In Durham this weekend (April 16-17), to mark World Heritage Day, there will be activities for people of all ages.

Saturday’s programme includes the launch of a What Makes Durham Great photography competition and stonemason demonstrations at the World Heritage Site visitor centre and exhibitions and tours at Durham Cathedral.

Most drop-in activities run from 9.30am to 5pm.

On Sunday, there will also be family activities and a performance by Durham University Brass Band at Durham Castle.

Jane Gibson, the Durham World Heritage Site co-ordinator, said: “World Heritage Day is celebrated worldwide on April 18 every year.

“As World Heritage is the shared wealth of humankind, protecting and conserving this valuable asset requires the collective efforts of the international community.

“This special day offers an opportunity to raise the public’s attention on the significance of cultural heritage to their lives, identities and communities and to promote awareness of its diversity and vulnerability and the efforts required to protect and conserve it.”

For full details, visit durhamworldheritagesite.com

At Fountains Abbey, a weekend of events is being held, including the ongoing 30 Years of World Heritage exhibition. For more details see www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey-and-studley-royal-water-garden