RESIDENTS in a former mining community were able to research their family histories at a one-day event.

The history open day was organised by Durham County Council at Murton library.

The focus of the event was both family histories and past times in the former colliery village.

As well as displays, books, maps and information, there were a number of local history enthusiasts on hand to provide help and advice for the research venture.

Among them was David Butler, from the County Records Office, who took with him a microfiche reader so that visitors were able to view records not usually available at the library.

"We held a small local history event two years ago when we launched the book, Memories of Murton, which went down very well so we thought we would put on a bigger event this time," said Susan Weightman, from Murton library.

There were also displays of artefacts, including some items from the former pit as well as work by artists from the area.