A FLAGSHIP library celebrates its first anniversary this week with a series of events.

The activities mark the opening of the Clayport Library, as part of the Millennium Place scheme in Durham, last year.

The highlight of the first year was when the Queen opened the library as part of her Golden Jubilee visit in May.

Children from Shincliffe Primary School were guests of honour at yesterday's birthday party, while local historian David Butler gave a talk on the English Civil War.

Members of the library's hooky mat society, which is helping revive the traditional North-East craft of mat-making, are marking the anniversary by producing a mat to go on show at the library.

Other events this week include Indian head massage and culture workshops, performances by local musicians, plus a sportswriters' evening featuring The Northern Echo's Mike Amos.

Anyone wanting to reserve a free place at the week's events is asked to call the library, on 0191-386 4003.