LOCAL history societies from across East Lancashire attended a reception at County Hall in Preston.

The event recognised their role in promoting the history of the county.

County Coun John Shedwick, chairman of the county council, said: “From pre-Roman through the War of the Roses to the industrial revolution and more recent times, there's an amazing wealth of history in our county.

“The unique identity of Lancashire is made up of many different communities.

“Without the work of local history and heritage groups, Lancashire would be a less interesting county. They're keeping history alive.”