THE development of Seaham will be the subject of an illustrated talk by an archaeologist tomorrow.

Caroline Hardie will explain how the town has grown since 1828, at Seaham Library, starting at 2pm.

Ms Hardie, formerly county archaeologist at Northumberland County Council and now working on a conservation management plan for the Heritage Coast, will outline how the town and harbour have progressed over the years and how it was primarily driven by the needs of the coal industry.

In 1828, the Londonderry family decided to build a harbour. The shipping activity, along with railway operations, meant the town grew with it.

Major industrial expansion began in 1852 with the sinking of the first pit, which led to the construction of churches, a port and other buildings.

Ms Hardie will be joined by local author Bill Griffiths who has published a number of history books and who will informally launch his latest work about Seaham and its harbour.

Tickets for the talk are free from Seaham Library or by calling 0191-581 2034.