THE Roman Empire will be resurrected in a village built on the foundations of a fort erected between 260 and 270 AD.

A Heritage Festival celebrating the landmarks and communities steeped in history situated along the River Tees will see an array of family friendly activities held to mark their significance.

Piercebridge, near Darlington, is set to host an event tomorrow from 11am at the site where the Roman road Dere Street crossed the River Tees, which provided a key trade route and fort base to defend against the Celts.

James Hunter, Groundwork NE & Cumbria Delivery Officer said, “What a way to celebrate the huge range of heritage we have here in the Tees Valley. We celebrate the Roman heritage that is under our feet in Piercebridge, the Civil War Battles, the vast pottery heritage we have throughout the Tees, and everything in between. Join us for a wonderful, fun-filled day.”

The River Tees Rediscovered Partnership Project, part of Groundwork NE & Cumbria, received a grant of £1.89m from the National Lottery Heritage Fund in June 2014 to celebrate the area.

Throughout the day there will be reenactment performances, along with storytelling and heritage craft demonstrations.

A shuttle bus will run between the Head of Steam Museum at Darlington's North Road railway station. and Piercebridge to transport visitors to the event. Refreshments will on sale in the church courtesy of the Parish Council, or just bring a picnic.