Historic crimes of Lancashire are the focus of a new major exhibition unveiled this week in Preston.

The displays, in two rooms at Samlesbury Hall, feature memorabilia and forensic case studies as well as uniforms dating back to the 1880s and police equipment including old style handcuffs and truncheons.

The public exhibition, which opened on Monday, details some of the county's grisly murders through words and pictures.

Most of the entries were donated by former police officers from Lancashire Constabulary, which has its headquarters at Hutton, and their families, and retired police sergeant and amateur historian, Bob Dobson, was on hand to link the exhibits with historical facts.

Visitors to the exhibition will be able to see how the police tracked down killers from cases across Lancashire, including new fingerprint techniques, and details of how crimes were solved as well as gaining an insight into the advances in forensic science.

One case to be featured is the discovery of the handless corpse, Martin Johnstone, who was found by divers at Eccleston Delph, Halfpenny Lane, Chorley, on October 15, 1979. Acting chief constable Steve Finnigan said: "We hope the exhibition will give people the chance to understand more about Lancashire Constabulary's proud history and celebrates its many achievements down the years."

Sharon Jones, director of Samlesbury Hall, said: "Even before it has opened we have had lots of interest. We think it will add a new dimension to the hall and attract even more visitors."

For information call 01254 812010 or visit www.samlesburyhall.co.uk for details.