Exotic creatures have joined a line up on children’s favourites and cricketing greats, as part of the entertainment at Durham’s Big Birthday Blast.
The event, which will take place on Sunday (August 16), will see a full day of family focused fun take place at the Emirates Durham International Cricket Ground, and has been organised jointly by Durham County Cricket Club (DCCC) and County Durham Community Foundation (CDCF).
The event marks 20 years since the first ball was bowled at the ground, and two decades of CDCF, a grant-making charity that supports good causes across the county.
David Harker, chief executive of DCCC, said: “Sunday looks set to be a fantastic day with Peppa Pig, SpongeBob SquarePants and now a petting zoo of snakes and reptiles to keep the little ones entertained.
“Added to a fantastic line up of on the field action, we think it will be a great day. And the weather forecast’s looking great, so what better place to be to entertain the children?”
The petting zoo, Pet Parties North East, will see a range of large snakes come to the event with registered handler Craig Heslington, giving little ones the chance to play with them.
The day will be helping to raise funds for CDCF and for the club’s bid to develop a community use training ground on land close to the EDICG as part of their First Class Future’s initiative. On the field action will see the Lashings team – made up of legendary cricketers – take on a Durham team that also includes pro footballer Steve Harper and Newcastle United legend Peter Beardsley.
Barbara Gubbins, chief executive of CDCF, which has celebrated two decades of making a difference in the county, said: “The line up of entertainment on Sunday will be fantastic, and will keep the whole family entertained. And – what’s more – it’s for a great cause.
“We’re really excited for the event, and hope to see people from across the county and beyond come along to be part of what we are sure will be a fun-filled day.”
Gates open at noon on the day with the Lashings XI cricket match starting at 3pm. Adult tickets cost £5 and children go free. Guests are asked to prebook online at DCCC’s website: www.durhamccc.co.uk or by calling the Box Office on 0844 499 4466.