PEOPLE are being encouraged to step back in time and celebrate Darwen's illustrious past.

Culture officials have devised a new heritage trail through the town thanks to a heritage lottery grant.

The historical trek, detailed in a new leaflet available from the town's library, records buildings of historical and architectural interest.

Darwen's trail begins at the library itself and includes the White Lion pub, which started life as a loom house.

The former Wesleyan Methodist Chapel, which played host to the famous preacher twice in the 18th century, also features.

Steve Rigby, the council's culture and leisure director, said: "Darwen is rich in heritage and history.

"Many of the buildings date back as far as the 19th century and many have been brought back into use.

"The heritage trail is not just aimed at visitors but people living in the borough who may not realise the significance and history behind many of the buildings we walk past every day."

The trail in Darwen will be launched this Saturday at the library.