FAMILY researchers are invited to delve into the archives to discover more about their ancestors at Durham County Record Office.

A series of advice sessions are being staged as part of its Branching Out programme.

Among the specific areas covered are an exploration of civilian life in the Second World War, how to trace details of forebears prior to 1800 and electoral registers.

There is a £10 charge per session, which are part of a regular series designed for people who have already begun tracing their family tree or who have attended one of the beginners’ courses staged by records office archivists.

Beginners’ family history classes are also regularly staged, with the next in June, for £30 for three sessions.

Bookings can be made by email to record.office@durham.gov.uk, or by ringing 03000-267626.