A MUSEUM dedicated to one of the 19th Century's biggest and dirtiest industries is hosting an exhibition of elegant fashion.

Killhope North of England Lead Mining Museum, in Weardale, County Durham, is displaying a collection of Victorian outfits.

What Weardale Wore, which runs until August 3, includes a dozen womens' dresses, and children's clothes and accessories dating from 1853 to 1900.

The exhibition is a combination of items from a private North East collector and pieces on loan from the Laing Art Gallery, in Newcastle.

Each outfit indicates a landmark date in the area's history, such as a garden party marking the retirement of Sir Thomas Sopwith, chief agent to WB Lead, which mined Killhope, St John's Chapel flower show, and the start of work on the Park Level shaft 150 years ago.

Shelagh Connor, from the museum, said: "We are delighted to have these exhibits at Killhope. We are extremely grateful to the collector and Laing for helping us.

"There are some fascinating items, like Victorian undergarments, including a leather and black and red satin corset.

"I am sure all visitors will enjoy the exhibition. It is especially nice for women because the rest of the museum often interests men more than women."

The exhibition is open daily, from 1pm to 5pm.