A TOP tourist attraction forced to close by vandalism and the success of the Teletubbies on TV has found a new lease of life.

Sabden Treacle Mines shut two years ago after a decade as an East Lancashire tourist attraction.

The centre, which attracted 30,000 visitors a year, spawned a mini-industry in the manufacture of furry toys and an award-winning television series.

Now it has been reopened by Burnley woman Rita Baxter as a craft and heritage centre called The Witches' Cauldron.

Bill Dewhurst began making the furry Treacle Miner toys after being made redundant as an electronics engineer.

Wife Barbara-Anne, daughters Christine and Helen and son Philip soon became equal partners and the Sabden Treacle Mines were opened.

A London Weekend Television series followed, featuring the voice of the late Willie Rushton, which notched up a BAFTA nomination.

The popular venue became a target for vandals, but it was the Teletubbies craze that sounded the deathknell when the Treacle Mines lost their appeal.

Now Rita Baxter hopes to return the site to its former glory with a craft, heritage and information centre.

It will become a showcase for local artists and craftspeople to display their artwork and wares.

The official opening was attended by villagers, family and friends, well-wishers and former Ribble Valley Mayor Eileen Lowe, who lives in Sabden.

"It was a great night and everyone is really pleased with our new venture. It can only get better from here!" Rita said.

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