VISITORS to a redeveloped old village school are set to come face to face with its past.

Croston Old School will welcome folk through its doors during the annual Heritage Open Days weekend.

And there will be a chance for people to help identify some of the faces of their friends and family on a collection of school photographs from the 1920s, 50s and 70s.

There will also be a display about the history of the building, including some artefacts which have been donated to the school.

There will be a chance for people to tell their stories which will be included in a guide to the buildings which is being put together to raise funds for community activity at the centre.

Trustee Mark Farrar said: "We want to get people in to see what we have to offer as well as to view the splendid buildings that have been refurbished with the help of local people and the National Lottery. We feel that the building is a good example of civic pride."

He added: "We have been collecting old photos of the building and have an exhibition, including school photos from just after the First World War. "We want to keep these as a record for display in the buildings, as well as other interesting memorabilia which has been donated.

"The old cane found down the back of one of the cupboards might bring back some bad memories."

Stories include experiences of taking part in the 1951 Festival of Britain Pageant and being sat on top of a cupboard by a strict teacher!

Croston Old School dates from 1660, the buildings starting life a a single storey school.

In 1802 a School of Industry was built in what is now the home of Croston Pre-School.

In 1827 a major rebuilding took place at a cost of £407 13s 2d which joined the two buildings together.

The buildings will be open from 1-4pm tomorrow (Friday, September 7) and from 10am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Heritage Open Days take place throughout the country from tomorrow when an estimated million-plus people will visit buildings and gardens free of charge.

Other local attractions open during the weekend include Bank Hall, Bretherton, Astley Hall and Chorley Little Theatre.

Visit www.civictrust.org.uk for a full list or call 090 800 803.