RESIDENTS are being invited to bling themselves up for two special events to mark the grand opening of Colchester Castle’s new exciting exhibition.

To celebrate the launch of Adorn: Jewellery, The Human Story, on July 27, Colchester Council is organising special access events for both adults and children.

The exhibition itself will feature jewellery from across the ages, starting in the Bronze Age, through Roman times, to the present day.

A number of the items have been loaned to the castle from the British Museum and other major collections including original jewellery from Pompeii.

Julie Young, councillor responsible for culture and performance, said: “We are excited to bring Adorn to the people of Colchester.

“The exhibition will showcase items of personal adornment, some of which are over 5,000 years old, spanning from the Bronze age right up to the present day. I am personally looking forward to seeing items of jewellery from Pompeii kindly on loan to us from the British Museum.”

The first of the launch events is exclusively for adults.

Called Bling It On it will give residents exclusive access to the exhibition the day before it officially opens to the general public.

Visistors, who will be encouraged to wear their own finery, will be able to immerse themselves in the stories of the collection and enjoy an exclusive drink designed and crafted by Three Wise Monkeys at the bar.

On Friday, August 2, there will also be a special children’s launch party. Called Razzle Dazzle with Adorn, there will be party games, face painting and refreshments.

Youngsters will be encouraged to wear fancy dress and to share stories about their own fashion choices.

Ms Young said: “I would urge anyone to grab a ticket for one of the launch events and see the exhibition in style.

“Don’t forget: if you are a Colchester resident, pick up a resident pass so you can visit as many times as you like.”

Tickets for Bling It On, which takes place between 7.30pm and 10.30pm, cost £15 and tickets for Razzle Dazzle With Adorn, which takes place between 2pm and 4pm, cost £5 after admission to Colchester Castle. Call 01206 282941 or visit colchester.cimuseums.org.uk/adorn.