Lancashire celebrates Lancashire Day

Libraries and museums across the county are getting ready to celebrate Lancashire Day on 27 November, with events taking place to mark the occasion.

Lancashire Day dates back to 1295, when the county sent its first representatives to Parliament. This marked Lancashire's move into the wider sphere of politics.

Nelson Library will be celebrating the historic occasion with a number of activities over a few days including a coffee morning, storytelling, quizzes, paper weaving sessions and a poetry competition.

There will also be a writing competition for children under 16.

Visitors to the Record Office on Bow Lane, Preston will be able to buy refreshments from a pop – up café, hosted for the occasion by The Friends of Lancashire Archives. Some of the fascinating items and records held by the archive service will also be on display.

All of these activities are free to attend.

An evening of music and storytelling to illustrate some of Lancaster's history will be held at Lancaster Castle. The performance of 'A Lancaster Brew: Of Witches, Trade and Lino' will take place on Saturday 26 November at 7.30pm.

A selection of music including Gregorian chant, folk songs and sea shanties will be mixed with stories about Lancaster's history up to the present day. Photographs showing the development of the city will provide a backdrop to the event.

Tickets for this performance costs £7.50 for adults and £6.00 for concessions and children.

Ticket numbers are limited so booking is essential. To book a ticket, to find out about opening times or for more information phone 01524 64998 or call in at the castle shop between 9.30am to 4.30pm.

County Councillor Marcus Johnstone, cabinet member for environment, planning and cultural services, said: "We've got a good range of events for people of all ages to enjoy.

"I'd encourage everyone to drop in and celebrate the history of our fantastic county, in a really enjoyable way."

Anyone who lives in the UK can join a Lancashire library, either online or by visiting in person. Membership is free and there are no age restrictions.

More information about events being held in Lancashire libraries is available at www.lancashire.gov.uk/libraries, or by calling 0300 123 6703.

For more details about events being held in Lancashire County Council museums, visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/museums

More information about the event at Lancashire Archives is available by telephoning 01772 533039 or by emailing [email protected].

Alternatively, visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/archives