THE birth of Durham indoor markets 150 years ago will be explored in a talk next month.

Local historian David Butler is giving the talk in the city's library, in South Street, on Wednesday, September 19, at 2pm, to mark the anniversary. Before the indoor markets were built in 1851, in Market Place, traders were exposed to the elements.

Mr Butler said: "These pressures led to various ideas for the markets with different locations suggested for it. Interestingly, quite a few of the initial shareholders were cler- gymen, but I'm not sure why."

Mr Butler has co-written a book, The History of Durham Indoor Market 1851-2001, with Colin Wilkes, the market's managing director. It will be on sale, priced £4.99, at the event. Tickets for the talk cost £1 and are available from the library, on 0191-386 4003.