FAMILIES are being invited to learn more about a historical landmark as a new season of heritage open days are set to resume.
Following a successful first season last year, Murgatroyd's Brine Pump in Middlewich will once again be welcoming members of the public to its Brooks Lane site.
Run by the Middlewich Heritage Trust, the newly restored brine pump site offers the chance to learn more about the town's unique industrial history and geology.
And this year will see the return of an old brine tank, which was too far gone for restoration but has been transformed into sculpture by artist Stephen Charnock of Scartworks.
Kerry Kirwan, Middlewich heritage officer, said: "During the restoration the brine tank was too far gone to be saved so had to be cut up.
"We came up with the idea of making a sculpture out of the usable pieces so it will always remain on site.
"We were delighted when Stephen agreed to take on the project.
"Stephen has 20 years of experience developing public art and private commissions.
"His passion for exploring the properties of materials made him the perfect choice for designing our sculpture, which will be one of many he has made throughout the UK.
"It’s a perfect start to our second season. The open days were above all expectations last year, we hope more families will come along and enjoy spending some time here.
"We will remain free to visit, it’s important to us that everyone can come along and be a part of our story."
The restoration was made possible by funding from Historic England, Heritage Fund, AIA, as well as other smaller funders and support from Middlewich Town Council.
Kerry added: "Above all, the hard work done by volunteers was astounding to get the site not only restored but to place in displays and interpretation.
"This is very much a brilliant example of how the community can get together to save one of its own scheduled monuments and share the experience with visitors."
The open days will feature guided tours, displays, handling collection and galleries.
They take place from noon to 4pm each day on April 15 and 16; May 13 and 14; June 10 and 11; July 29 and 30; August 26 and 27; and September 16 and 17.
Parking is available at nearby Middlewich Community Church with disabled spaces by the Murgatroyd gate.
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