PANTOMIME dames and Punch and Judy shows will entertain visitors throughout the first three weeks of the month at Helmshore Mills Textile Museum.

The fun is set to start today with a variety of activities to suit all the family at the Holcombe Road site.

The inspiration for the activities has come from the comedy content of the museum's current exhibition 'Grin Up North'.

The exhibition explores the influence of northern comedians like Hylda Baker, Les Dawson, Peter Kay, Ken Dodd, Gracie Fields and George Formby.

Catriona West, the museums keeper, said: "The August events are aimed at encouraging family visits to the museum. We are really looking forward to holding the Punch and Judy shows. These are occasionally held at our sister museum in Fleetwood where they are very popular, so we thought we would see if Rossendale families would enjoy the experience."

Other events during the holidays will include pantomime dame facepainting classes, clown heads days, and puppet making.

For more information contact the museum on 01706 226459.