SWITCHED-ON volunteers dedicated to rescuing Bolton's industrial heritage are saving a rare piece of equipment from the former Hick Hargreaves works.

The electrical switchgear which stands in the now abandoned Soho foundry dates back to 1915.

Amazingly, it was still in use until a couple of weeks ago, powering one of the factory's cranes.

Demolition workers moved into the factory last week and are expected to clear the site within seven weeks, ready for the new Sainsbury's superstore.

But the Northern Mill Engines Society was determined to save a unique piece of Bolton's heritage and approached Sainsbury's for permission to remove part of the switchgear and place it on display in the Steam Museum in Chorley Old Road. The company immediately agreed.

"There are very few of these left now. It really is quite a unique survivor," said delighted society honorary secretary John Phillp.

The switchgear, which weighs around half a ton, is complete with its slate back and brass and copper fittings.

"It is in excellent condition," said Mr Phillp.

Sainsbury's operations manager Wendy Howard said: "We are pleased that a bit of the history of Bolton is going to be preserved."

The society, and contractors Miller Construction, are also trying to figure out a way of removing and saving two huge cast iron gateposts erected by Benjamin Hick at the entrance to the works, which date back to at least 1844.

The posts, emblazoned with a caduceus -- an ancient Greek or Roman herald's wand -- weigh around four tons each and were designed as a visible statement of Hicks' power and influence.

If they can be removed intact, the society plans to store them until a permanent home can be found.

Hick Hargreaves has moved to a new industrial unit in Wingates, Westhoughton. Sainsbury's expect to open their new store early next year.