A PENDLE museum charting life in the British Empire has taken over a new base.

The British in India Museum has moved from its base of more than 30 years in Newtown Street, Colne, to Hendon Mill, Nelson.

The curator and founder of the attraction, set up in 1972, today said the move would mean the museum would be able to open longer.

And Harry Nelson, called on more Pendle people to visit the historic museum.

He said: "We get people from all over coming but it is mainly people with a connection to India who come. Either they are going to India, or have been or have ancestors who lived there.

"It was the described as the jewel in the crown of the Empire and we would like to see more people from the Pendle area visit the museum."

The attraction moved to its new home last month because the cost of staying Colne meant it could only open two days a week.

Now the site is open from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.

Displays feature model soldiers, postage stamps, picture postcards and photographs connected to the British rule in India.

The memorabilia features photographs and household objects such as brass tables, wooden storage boxes, ink wells and copper dishes.

Mr Nelson added: "We are getting items all the time and we have had two donations in the last month which are considerable.

"We hope to get more items by purchase or gifts to continue to interest the public."

The British in India Museum is at Hendon Mill, Nelson. Admission is £3.50 for adults and 50p for under 16s. For more information contact 01282 613129.