A COLOURING competition spelt out success for two young historians.

Visitors to Durham’s Clayport Library and Durham County Record Office’s annual family fun day were challenged to design an illuminated letter, with prizes up for grabs for the winners.

Ben Skipsey, five, of Belmont, won the under sevens contest; and Emily Simpson, eight, of Durham, triumphed in the over sevens category.

Each received £10 book vouchers for their winning designs.

Dawn Layland, Durham County Record Office’s education and outreach archivist, said: "We had some really great entries this year and it is obvious that the children had put a lot of work and thought into them.

"It was difficult to pick a winner but I think the two chosen entries do stand out from the crowd."