POP Idol contestant Aaron Bayley, former Doctor Who Colin Baker, and a castle ghost will come together for a time travelling musical.

Celebrate, a new musical commissioned by Chester-le-Street District Council, tells the story of the town's eventful history including St Cuthbert, the Lambton Worm, and the Bible's first translation into English.

After securing local composer George Hastings to come up with the music, the council asked his writing partner, Colin Baker, to produce a script.

Mr Baker was so impressed by the idea that he agreed, and Aaron Bayley, who helped launch the musical yesterday, has offered to perform in it.

Celebrate will be staged at Lumley Castle, on July 6, as part of a whole day of entertainment, including street theatre and a 50ft Lambton Worm.

Peter Darrant, castle spokesman, said: "We will have 400 children and local amateur groups taking part, and we are also writing to celebrities asking them to join in.

"There will be a firework display and lighting and set designs the Telewest Arena would be proud of."

Mr Baker has drawn on his Doctor Who past to base the story on two children visiting the castle with their parents and being taken back in time by its resident 600-year-old ghost, Lily of Lumley.

While the leading characters have yet to be cast, four local schools - Lumley Junior, Redrose Primary, St Bede's Primary and Bournmoor Primary, have started learning the songs as part of an education programme.

Mr Darrant invited anyone with knowledge of local history to get in touch and provide an input.

"We already have the main story but if anything exciting came to light, it could be incorporated," he said.

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