MAPS dating back hundreds of years can be viewed on computer thanks to a new venture.

Pictures in Print, a joint project between Durham University, Durham County Council and Durham Cathedral, brings the collections of the three together on the internet.

Joan Weighell, information services and local studies librarian at Durham library, said: "The first Ordnance Survey maps were produced in 1860 but Pictures in Print looks at earlier maps and engravings.

"Some of the material dates back to the sixteenth century with most of the really old items coming from the collections held by the cathedral and the university."

Pictures in Print can be seen at www.dur.ac.uk/picturesinprint where searches can be made by place, person and subject.

Pictures in Print was funded by the British Library's Co-operation and Partnership Programme and includes some images from its collection in London that are not available locally.