YOUNGSTERS learned a traditional craft as they took part in a rag-rugging workshop yesterday.

Pupils from Middlestone Moor Primary School, in Spennymoor, gained new skills as they learned about the traditional rug-making technique which many of their relatives once used.

The course was led by Heather Ritchie, who has 25 years of rag-rug making experience.

It was run by Groundwork West Durham and funded by the County Durham Foundation Neighbourhood Renewal Community Chest and Wear Valley District Council.

Ms Ritchie said that one of the aims of the session was to encourage children to take up the age-old method, which involves putting strips of scrap material into a hessian backing.

She said: "We are trying to keep it alive. The little ones were talking about their grannies and how they used to make rugs. It would be great if we can get them interested too.

"It has been superb.

"At first, some of the children were saying 'I can't do it'- but by the end, they had all produced lovely rugs."

As well as making their own designs, the pupils contributed to a large rug which will be displayed at Bishop Auckland Discovery Centre when it re-opens.