A WEEKEND of entertainment to celebrate the Queen's official 90th birthday is being prepared at Hartlebury Castle.

Kicking off the birthday weekend on Friday, June 10, a production of Shakespeare's The Tempest will be performed, followed by a choral concert in the Great Hall on Saturday evening.

Heartbreak Productions will perform The Tempest outdoors, against the backdrop of the historic castle, while the Kidderminster Valentines choir will take centre stage at the concert on Saturday.

Jacqui Watson, Trustee for Hartlebury Castle Preservation Trust, said: "2016 has been a great opportunity to celebrate some of Britain's national treasures, with the Queen's 90th birthday and the 400th anniversary of the death of William Shakespeare.

"What better way to commemorate these two great British icons than with a production of one of Shakespeare's most loved plays to start the weekend on Friday night, followed by a choir performing songs covering the nine decades of Her Majesty's life on the Saturday?

"It's a chance to really treat yourself to a great evening out."

There will be an opportunity to enjoy a piece of birthday cake and sing happy birthday to Her Majesty, with ticket holders welcome to enjoy their own picnics in the carriage circle from 6pm onwards.

Visitors can also view the beautiful magnolia tree which was planted by Queen Elizabeth herself.

Tickets for the Tempest on 10 June at 7.30pm cost £14 for adults and £7.50 for children if booked in advance.

To book call 01299 250416 or visit the museum shop. Tickets will be available on the door.

Tickets for the Valentines Choir on 11 June are £12 and can be booked in advance on 01299 250416. Doors open at 6 and the concert will start at 7pm, picnics are welcome prior to the performance.