A NEW exhibition at Bolton Museum is offering a fascinating insight into the Ancient Egyptians' relationship with the animal world.

'The Beasts of the Nile' is a captivating display that uncovers why animals were so important to their lives.

It includes an amazing array of objects including mummies, bronzes, textiles, pottery and wooden sculptures.

The exhibition is interactive, which makes it ideal for children, with activities like fishing Egyptian-style. It is also an ideal opportunity to see objects from the British Museum's collections alongside pieces from Warrington Museum and Bolton's own extensive collection.

The ancient Egyptians had a special relationship with animals and every part of their lives was connected to them.

Through eight different themes such as animals as Gods and protectors, animal products and animals as humour, visitors can find out how domesticated, wild and exotic animals played different aspects in their lives.

Throughout the summer Bolton Museum will be running drop-in activities inspired by the Beasts of the Nile exhibition on every Tuesday and Thursday from 10.30am to 3.30pm.

The exhibition runs to Saturday, September 4, and is open Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm.