THE WAY it was in a northern pit community has been mapped out for posterity.

The 1895 ordnance survey map of Annfield Plain, Oxhill, Catchgate and West and East Kyo, all near Stanley, has been reprinted and is now on sale.

But some of the most fascinating details are in an accompanying essay by John Griffiths, which details some of the history of the area up to 1895, a time when coal was king.

For example Annfield Plain, was known as Annfield Plane until 1855, named after a railway incline. Other interesting facts accompanying the map include details of the Crown and Thistle Inn, built in 1670 and the oldest building depicted on the map, which was knocked down in 1955. There is even some speculation as to how the village of Quaking Houses got its name.

The map can be bought from bookshops or can be ordered by post by calling (01207) 583388. It costs £2.10.