DURHAM University is to sponsor the tenth anniversary edition of Lumiere when the UK’s biggest light festival returns to the historic city later this year.

The university is to make a cash investment of £120,000 and be a major partner across cultural activity, volunteering and logistics.

Lumiere Durham has become a landmark event in the cultural calendar of the North-East and is recognised around the world as a “must-see” on the international light festival circuit.

Professor David Cowling, of Durham University, said: “Lumiere is an inspiring event; it’s innovative, exciting and something that many, many people look forward to greatly.

“As Durham’s university, we’re proud to be involved.

“Lumiere, like the university, brings many visitors to Durham, makes a significant contribution to the North-East economy, and helps raise the profile of our city and region nationally and internationally.”

Lumiere returns to Durham from Thursday to Sunday November 14 to 17.

The four-day festival will feature around 30 bespoke installations from internationally acclaimed artists.

Councillor Ossie Johnson, of Durham County Council, said: “Every edition of the event provides a truly amazing spectacle for people from far and wide and a major boost to our economy.”