DURHAM was in the national media spotlight on Tuesday as it launched the country's first toll road.

Advertiser readers have known about the new £2 charge for accessing Market Place and the peninsula for some time.

But camera crews and reporters from London, filled the Market Place to see the first driver pay the congestion-busting charge.

Durham is the first of possibly several cities, including the capital, to use charging to reduce traffic.

Angus Griffin, 57, of South Tyneside, who had dropped his son off at university received a plaque from Durham County Council leader Ken Manton after saying he did not mind the charge. Mr Griffin, surrounded by cameramen as he paid on exit, said it was worth it for protecting the city's historic environment.

But tourist Andrew McRobbie, from Dover, thought it 'disgusting' on top of having to pay £5 to park on Palace Green.

And pensioner Matthew Hampshire, 62, of Stanley, said: "It's ridiculous because there are no disabled parking bays in Market Place anymore.''

A county council spokesman said 'a handful' of people refused to pay but a couple returned on foot to settle up.

The charge is levied Mondays to Saturdays, from 10am to 4pm - there are exemptions for people like residents - and there is a £30 fine for people who refuse to pay.

The council hopes more people will use its Cathedral Bus shuttle service between the peninsula, car parks and the bus and rail stations. It runs daily and journeys cost 50p each way - half for concessions.

Call Traveline on (0870) 608 2608 for details.