PEOPLE living in Bamber Bridge are being asked to play detective and take part in a local history hunt.

The old Co-op shop, in John Street, is to become the office for the New Progress Housing Association which wants to trace one of the shop's previous managers for the official opening of the new premises next month.

Gail Shackley, area manger of the Leyland-based housing association, said: "The building is still very well known as the old Co-op even though it has been different shops since then.

"We wanted to keep a link with the village tradition and keep this link with the past as the Co-op shops were always a main part of the village and towns they served. It would be nice for a modern community business to pay a small tribute to a former business." The office is due to open in early June and will serve 951 houses and flats in Bamber Bridge, Lostock Hall and surrounding areas.

The move is being made because the old New Progress office in Station Road has become too small for the organisation's requirements including facilities for private meetings and new services.

Gail said: "We hope to increase the range of services we offer to tenants and local residents from the new and improved office and continue our high standard of customer care."

If anyone knows how to get in touch with former managers they can contact Gail at the office off Station Road, Bamber Bridge, or by calling 629369.