HISTORIANS at Smithills Hall are hoping Bolton Evening News readers can shed some light on the history of a new addition to their collection.

A silver-plated teapot has gone on show in the hall's Victorian section.

Its inscription reads: "Presented to Mr John Highton by the teachers, scholars and friends of Mawdsley Street School, Bolton, as an acknowledgement of his many valued services, 2nd January 1873."

The Friends of Smithills Hall are eager to hear from anyone who can tell them more about the teapot, John Highton or the school.

With the Ainsworth Rooms now open to the public, they would also like to hear from anyone with any information about the servants and their duties before 1938 when Bolton Council bought the hall.

Anyone who can help should contact John Knott on 01204 496552.