BOLTON'S Steam Museum is opening the doors of its new home to the public for the first time.

The historic museum, now situated behind Morrisons in Chorley Old Road, is run by the Northern Mill Engine Society, which was set up in 1966.

The original museum opened in 1983 with three restored medium-sized engines and several smaller ones, since the museum has grown and now boasts a collection of 15 rare and historic engines from the cotton era from 1840-1935.

The aim of the voluntarily-run museum is to preserve for future generations the historic value of Britain's unique engineering heritage.

Funding is currently an issue for the society, as they rely on donations and membership subscriptions. They recently applied for a Lottery grant, but were turned down. They are hoping to re-apply in the near future.

The museum will be open between 10am and 4.30pm today. Entry is free, but all donations are welcome. For further details contact David Lewis on 01204 846490.