SOME of the world's top guitarists are in the region for a major guitar festival that began last night.

The Customs International Guitar Festival, which is being held at the Customs House, South Shields, opened with a concert by John Renbourn and Tony McManus.

Also featuring over the weekend are American player Isaac Guillory, virtuoso jazz guitarist Martin Taylor, the duo Acoustic Mania, Clive Carroll and Andrew White.

As well as concerts, the festival includes master classes by the guitarists, demonstrations, and workshops for everyone from beginners to guitarists who want to improve their techniques.

Guitar traders and guitar makers will also be at the event.

For ticket information call the box office on 0191-454 1234