YOUNGSTERS are helping to bring the past to life for walkers and cyclists.

People using a cycle trail between Bowburn, Cassop and Quarrington Hill will be given an insight into the area's history.

There will be a map pointing out places of interest and a CD of stories connected to the route and the sounds of pit workings that would once have been commonplace.

Pupils at Cassop Primary School have been recording the villagers memories and recounting stories in a project organised by Durham City Arts.

Artist Beth Davidson, who is co-ordinating the project, said: "A lot of tourists come to Durham but they by-pass villages like these. If they pick up on the trail it could help to bring new people to the area."

It is expected that the project will be ready by summer.