BARNOLDSWICK'S rich industrial heritage can now be explored with a leisurely stroll thanks to the newly-opened Steam and Stream trail.

The route charts the fascinating history of the town, spanning from mills almost 500 years old to ultra-modern jet engine manufacturing.

The trail takes around an hour to complete, starting in the car park at Letcliffe Park and ending in Victory Park, near the Rolls Royce factories.

Boards are in place along the way to give information about each site and make sure walkers stay on track.

Over the past four years, £600,000 has been spent repairing historically important buildings, upgrading paths and planting trees along the trail, in preparation for its grand opening.

Funding came from Pendle Council, English Heritage, Lancashire Economic Partnership and the owners of some of the buildings included on the trail. The scheme has also been hailed as a way of increasing the value of council-owned buildings in Barnoldswick.

The Mayor of Pendle, Coun Allan Buck, himself a Barnoldswick resident, was one of the first to enjoy the trail after its launch. He said: "This is a wonderful addition to Barnoldswick and is both enjoyable and educational.

"It allows people of all age ranges to experience the heritage of Barnoldswick and to have a glimpse into its industrial history."

Neall Bower, Pendle Council's conservation project officer, added: "The majority of the trail is accessible to everyone thanks to the improvements that have been made to the paths. However, one section called the Forty Steps' could prove difficult for some. There are regular bus services to Barnoldswick town centre and from there it is only a short walk to the starting point at Letcliffe Park, so I really encourage everyone to come and have a leisurely stroll and learn about Barnoldswick's industrial heritage."

The trail highlights include Gillians, a former water-powered mill dating back to1790, Bancroft Mill, housing the original steam engine, and the site of the former Clough Mill - the first mill in Barnoldswick to be powered by steam in 1820.

Other features include the imposing Independent Methodist Church, on Walmsgate, the Corn Mill, which has stood on a site housing a mill since 1582, and the modern-day industrial power of Barnoldswick in the extensive Rolls Royce factories.

Free trail guides are available from Barnoldswick Tourist Information Centre and they can be contacted on 01282 817046.