The Northumberland County Council Archives team has begun offering free help for people researching local history.

Every Tuesday, a member of the team is available at the main reception of the County Hall in Morpeth to answer questions and offer advice on how to start using the vast selection of historical data available.

Northumberland Archives holds millions of records, from personal histories to property documents and business deals, dating as far back as 1156. To reserve a thirty-minute slot, hopeful researchers can book for free through Eventbrite's Northumberland Archives events.

Councillor Jeff Watson, cabinet member for Culture, Heritage and Libraries, said: “Whether residents want to trace their ancestry, research their local communities, hometowns or find out the history of a particular building or artefact, our team will be able to help.

“Northumberland has a rich history, and we are lucky to hold such expansive and impressive archives documenting the past centuries.

“I hope people take advantage of this offer and enjoy the process of uncovering the mysteries of the past and discovering their heritage.”

Records, containing intriguing facts and stories, can be found in the archive bases at Woodhorn and Berwick. Many of these records are also available online.

The council's expansive archive collection boasts being two miles in length.

The council is calling on interested residents to book a session and pop along and speak to the archives staff.