THERE'S an unseasonal chill in the air at Chester-le-Street but Durham hope to create a party atmosphere over the next few days as they celebrate the 21st anniversary of their arrival in first-class cricket.

They kick off with a beer and wine festival in a marquee bar with a £10 entry fee for an event which also offers a selection of food and local live music acts. The hours are 6-11pm tomorrow and Friday evenings and 11am-11pm on Saturday.

Sunday, the third and final day of the opening match against Durham University, is a family fun day with free entry from 10.30-4.30pm.

Peppa Pig will be appearing throughout the day along with the club mascot, Chester-le-Lion, and there will be a funfair, a face painter, and traditional toys, games and activities provided by Beamish Museum.

These will offer people the chance to master the art of 'boolers' and quoits, or have a go in a wooden go-kart or try on a period costume.

There will also be a craft fair in the Castle View and Cathedral Suites.

The Great Cricket Cake Off will also be launched with baked cakes being tested by a panel of judges.

The winning cake will be sold throughout the Ashes Test in August. Anyone wishing to enter a cake is asked to complete the application form available on the club website.