VISITORS enjoyed free access to scores of heritage buildings across East Lancashire this weekend as part of national Heritage Open Days.

The aim of the festival was to celebrate the country's diverse history, architecture and culture.

In Blackburn the Bureau Centre, the Quaker Meeting House in Paradise Lane, Hobkirk Sewing Machines and the Wharf Studios at Eanam Wharf welcomed visitors while in Burnley volunteers worked hard to prepare Towneley Park for the occasion.

The Weavers Triangle Visitor Centre, the Woodend Mining Museum and Oak Mont Engine House also took part in the programme.

Meanwhile in Darwen the Blackburn and Darwen Band March celebrated their 176th anniversary with the Hymn Tune Contest.

The Darwen Heritage Centre, which has been created over the last five months within Holker House, also opened its doors for the first time holding an Industrial Darwen exhibition and historic walk of the town.

Cllr John East, a member of the heritage centre committee and Darwen Town Council, said it was a 'storming weekend'.

He said: "It is the first time for the heritage centre and we had a constant stream of people coming through the doors. We have been overwhelmed by the number of visitors.

"The rest of the weekend was really good. I travelled on a Darwen Corporation bus taking families around the venues and the footfall for the whole weekend was outstanding.

"We had 20 places to visit.

"Visitors got to ring the bell at St Peter's Church and there was a brass band concert with 17 bands from across the north west performing."

Meanwhile Bold Venture Park, Brambles East School and the Grane Mill in Haslingden opened their doors to the public.

In Clitheroe, the Castle Museum welcomed visitors while the Trinity Methodist Church put on a celebration of panto.

Cllr Stuart Hirst, leader of Ribble Valley Council, said: "I am delighted that Ribble Valley could participate in this excellent programme which increases awareness of our rich heritage.

"It showcases some of the best aspects of what we have to offer in the Ribble Valley."

Gawthorpe Hall in Padiham, Stubbylee Hall in Bacup and Barnoldswick Bancroft Mill also took part.