A BEER and wine festival is to be held to mark the 21st anniversary of one of the region’s greatest sporting milestones.

Durham County Cricket Club is to stage a series of events throughout the summer to mark the 21 years since it was elevated to First Class County status, among the elite of the sport.

Events will culminate in August when Durham stages its first ever Ashes test match.

On Thursday, April 4, a three-day beer and wine festival gets underway at the club’s stadium in Chester-le-Street.

There will be 24 cask beers, 12 wines as well as ciders and perries on offer, along with live music. Tickets are priced £10 and the evening starts at 6pm.

On Sunday, the stadium is hosting a free family fun day from 10.30am to 4.30pm to coincide with the traditional first match of the season as Durham take on Durham University.

Entertainment will include a family fun fair, face-painting and appearances by animated characters Peppa Pig and George.

There will also be a craft fair, displays from Beamish Museum and a Great Cricket Cake Off baking competition.

For further details, visit www.durhamccc.co.uk.