An exhibition focusing on what it is to be human was unveiled in February 2009.

The exhibition, in Durham Cathedral, featured sculptures by South African artist Jane Alexander.

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On Being Human was hosted by Durham University's Institute of Advanced Study.

Ms Alexander said her human figures – in varying states of abjection and in varying degrees of morphing with animal life – invited reflection on what it is to be human in poverty, deprivation and oppression.

The main part of the exhibition was the Bom Boys – nine small figures in masks or face coverings that refer to boys who live on the streets of Cape Town, where the artist lives.

Zak Parlby, who was six in March 2009, had two passions in life – swimming and trains.

And when he heard funds were needed to restore a world-famous steam locomotive, he knew exactly what to do.

The youngster, from Staithes, North Yorkshire, swam 16 lengths of his local pool to raise the £25 needed to sponsor a bolt for his beloved Flying Scotsman, after the National Railway Museum, in York, launched the Steam Our Scotsman (SOS) appeal in January 2009.

It aimed to raise £250,000 to help complete the restoration project and bring No.4472 back into steam.

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People could sponsor components involved in the overhaul and parts on offer ranged from a bolt at £25 to the outer firebox at £100,000.

Zak learnt to swim at Guisborough Pool and took the plunge to swim 400m in February 2009.

Ruth Fawcett, from the museum, said: "We have been amazed by the support received from some very young members of the public."

Traditionally-dressed African dancers livened up Monday morning at a south Durham primary school in early March, 2009.

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The Lions of Zululand started a cultural tour of more than 80 North-East schools at Coundon St Joseph's Primary where they met all the children during a day of performances and workshops.

Pupils watched them singing and dancing before working in small groups learning about the tribal language, culture, music and art, and ending the day with a performance of their own.

Headteacher Stefa McManners said: "It was fantastic. It was one of those days you never forget."