A SPECTACULAR display of embroidery is adding to the attractions at a World Heritage site during the traditionally-busy month of August.

Tens of thousands of visitors flocking to Durham Cathedral over the next fortnight will see the array of work produced by members of the city branch of the Embroiderers' Guild.

Sewing the Seed has been put together to mark the tenth anniversary of the branch, which has developed close links with the cathedral over the decade.

The exhibition features many new pieces inspired by the cathedral, specifically the Lindisfarne Gospels facsimile book, in the treasury, plus a selection of the previous offerings of members, produced in workshops, City and Guilds courses, for competitions, or for projects and commissions.

It can be viewed in the Monks' Dormitory, off the cathedral cloisters, with an off-shoot display, The Needle Points North, produced by 14 North-East guild groups to mark the Year of Visual Arts, in 1996, in the Galilee Chapel.

Accompanying the displays are children's workshops, overseen by guild experts, in the cathedral education rooms.

They run daily, excluding the weekend, until next Thursday, August 25, from 10am to 12.30pm.

The charge is £2.50 and pre-booking is essential, via the cathedral education service, on 0191-386 4266.

Sewing the Seed was opened at a private viewing for guild members by the Dean of Durham, the Very Reverend Michael Sadgrove, last night.

It runs until Monday, August 29, with a £1 charge for adults and 30p for children, or £2 for family tickets.

Further details of the work of the Embroiderers' Guild is available on 0191-383 2037.