THOUSANDS of people across Preston and South Ribble enjoyed an historical weekend at some of the county's most historic public buildings and picturesque towns and villages.

The visits were organised by Lancashire County Council's Archaeology Service and included well-trodden walkways and several old buildings.

Visitors to Preston were treated to a grizzly tour of the cells at Sessions House and the court room where some of the country's most famous trials have taken place including that of Britain's most prolific mass murder Harold Shipman.

Another town centre tourist spot which pulled in the crowds was the Museum of Lancashire, in London Road, next to the prison, where county councillor Brian Johnson, popped in for a visit to admire the huge stone cross on permanent display.

People who fancied a stroll across the county's green landscape made their way to the picture-postcard town of Longridge, where two free guided walks had been organised.

And the quaint village of Croston, near Leyland, with its ancient old school, in Church Street, attracted dozens of visitors as always.

The Heritage Open Days England are co-ordinated nationally by the Civic Trust supported by English Heritage, Heritage Lottery Fund, Saga Group Ltd., Royal and Sun Alliance, Guardian Newspapers Ltd., The History Channel, Department of Culture, Media and Sport and the Council of Europe.

They were organised in celebration of England's architecture, history and culture with a wide range of events taking place across the county including talks, exhibitions and slide shows.

Around 750,000 visitors are expected to have participated in the weekend nationally -- all enjoying the opportunity to experience their local heritage.

Cabinet member for community and regeneration, Coun Johnson said: "The County Council always supports National Heritage Days which give everyone the opportunity to visit places they would not normally have access to.

"We are proud to be able to support this national event and to have so many places of interest in Lancashire for people to visit." SCHOOL DAYS: Croston Old School opened its doors for the event VISIT TO THE CROSS: Coun Brian Johnson inside the Museum of Lancashire STROLL: Two guided walkes were organised around quaint Longridge