TIPS to help the curious get started in tracing their family tree are available with the return of a series of popular online courses.

Following its successful online family history series last year, Durham County Record Office, run by the county council, will revive sessions which provide an introduction or refresher on such research.

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The course is comprised of three talks, all bookable individually, and will explore some of the sources that family historians use.

It will also show how archives, such as those held at the county record office, can help in their search. 

Participants will have a choice of morning or evening sessions for courses on civil registration, today (Wednesday January 26), from either 10am to 11am, or 6pm to 7pm.

Similar timings apply for the following two Wednesday, focusing on the census, on February 2, and parish registers, on February 9.

The record office is also running its monthly online talks for those with more experience in family history, as part of its Branching Out programme.

Read more: Historic talks from Durham's Record office

Monthly talks explore a specific family history subject.

Each session costs £5 and can be booked using the record office’s online shop.

Booking in advance is essential in order to receive the joining link.

Early booking is advised as there are limited places available.

Councillor Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “Our record office is kicking off the new year with a range of fascinating family and local history talks for both beginners and experts alike.

“Using examples from our own archives, each talk covers various topics which will pique the interest of anyone with an interest in history.”

Places can be booked via, https://recordofficeshop.durham.gov.uk/pgEventResult, the record office’s online shop.

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