MEMBERS of a local history group are celebrating its 50th anniversary with the news that a £5,000 lottery grant is coming their way.

The Chorley and District Historical and Archaeological Society will use the grant to fund a publication about its work and also to buy materials.

The society, founded by three people in 1954 now has some 35 members and aims to provide historical information to the community via research and excavation.

High points for the group during the past half century include the discovery of a bronze age burial site on Astley Farm, the excavation and subsequent re-siting at Rivington of the Anderton stones and the excavation of the Lancaster Canal Tramway.

In recent years the society has achieved further acclaim by providing local information on its popular website.

Society secretary and founder member, Jack Smith, said members were excited to be celebrating their 50th anniversary.

He said: "We just want the society to continue to go from strength to strength, with more recognition and a bit more support from individuals and the community.

"We have a whole programme of events taking place throughout the year and everyone is invited along."

An exhibition marking their 50 years is on now at Chorley Library and may move to other libraries in the area later in the year.

The group meets on the second Tuesday of the month at the Blind Welfare Centre, Crown Street, Chorley, at 7.30pm.

Activities include lectures, historical walks and outings and an annual members' dinner.

For further information visit www.chorleyhistorysociety.co.uk