TWO schoolchildren have won book tokens in a drawing competition during a family visit to a record office.

Around 20 children enjoyed a visit to Durham County Records Office where they saw ancient illuminated manuscripts, then tried their hand at designing their own medieval letters.

Nine-year-old Amy Hack, of Durham City, was declared the winner in the hand drawn section and William Vincent, seven, of Brandon in the coloured-in category.

Archivist Dawn Layland said: "The County Record Office collects and preserves documents of historic interest relating to the county.

"The day gave families the chance to see behind the scenes in the strong room where our documents are stored and take part in making a medieval seal, try on Tudor costumes and write with a quill pen."

A similar event is planned for next year.