A HIGH quality copy of the Lindisfarne Gospels is being displayed at venues across the North-East in a collaborative touring exhibition organised by the British Library and regional museums.

The full colour copy, which faithfully reproduces the intricate designs of the eighth century manuscript, will visit 12 locations. It is at present on show at Bede's World, Jarrow, until January 30.

The Lindisfarne Gospels were created in the early 700s on the island of Lindisfarne and are thought to be the work of one man, Eadfrith, Bishop of Lindisfarne (698-721).

He laboured on their creation for more than six years, producing one of the world's most remarkable religious works of art. The facsimile is an accurate copy of the Gospels, enabling visitors to see close up the beauty of the book's decoration, and giving access to this important world treasure.

The British Library presented facsimile copies to Durham Cathedral and the Lindisfarne Heritage Centre last year, and both sites have them on permanent display.

The Gospels are on permanent display at the British Library at St Pancras in London where entry is free.

Touring dates in this area next year include: May 4-30: Dorman Museum, Middlesbrough; July 12-August 7: Kirkleatham Old Hall Museum, Redcar; August 9-September 4: Killhope Lead Mining Museum; September 12-October 22: Stockton Central Library.