THE volunteers at Bancroft Mill are busy preparing for a visit by the Mayor and Mayoress of Pendle, Councillors Ken Hartley and Jayne Mills, for their 'Steaming Day' on Sunday September 29.

The Mill at Barnoldswick will be open to the public as usual and visitors will be able to see the two steam engines in operation, the 650 HP Roberts engine which originally powered the mill, and a 300HP Smith Bros & Eastwood engine, rescued 15 years ago from a mill at Bradley near Skipton.

There will also be weaving demonstrations on the mill’s two looms.

Cllr Hartley trained as an engineer with Rolls Royce and has an interest in local heritage, but a spokesman said his visit will perhaps give him his first opportunity to start a steam engine.

All are welcome to come and see this important part of the region's industrial heritage. It is only through the generosity visitors and the efforts of the Mill’s volunteers that the museum is able to carry on.

Free guided tours will take place at various times during the afternoon or visitors can explore on their own.

The Mill is suitable for all ages. Some lucky youngsters may be invited to start the engine.

There is disabled access to the majority of the site, free parking, a tea Rroom, gift shop selling unique souvenirs including tea towels woven on site, a collection of model steam engines and a fascinating historic site to explore. Dogs are welcome on a lead.

The mill is open from 11am with the engines running at intervals from 1pm to 3.45pm.

Admission: adults £6, concessions £5, family ticket £15 (two adults and up to four children), children five and under free.