YOU could accuse the latest exhibition at Colne Library of plumbing new depths.

The unusual month-long exhibition will look at the history of plumbing paraphernalia in Pendle and in particular toilets!

The event has been organised by Nelson, Colne and District Plumbing Association, which has managed to uncover rare and unusual items, including a loo graphically known as The Clencher.

Pendle's Mayor, Councillor Ian Gilhespy, paid a visit to the exhibition to officially launch the display.

As well as examples of 'toilet humour' to raise a smile among visitors, the exhibition also includes unusual items which give an insight into how Pendle's plumbing has changed over the past 100 years.

The event takes in advertisements, documents, copper piping and cylinders, right up to modern-day infra-red flushing loos that operate when the users break a beam as they walk away.

One of the most unusual items is a lead statue of Christ made using plumber's skills. The statue was made in the 1920s by a Preston plumber named Fred Ginger and rarely makes a public appearance. The British Museum has expressed interest in exhibiting it. Edward Padgett, president of the plumbing association, said: "Any plumber would look at the statue and be gob-smacked at the techniques used to mould it.

"One of the exhibits is a handcart my grandfather used to use when he was a plumber. We've managed to get most of the items from members' workshops. There will be seven or eight toilets, including a ship's one with brass fitting that operates with a pedal.

"There will also be work by Burnley College apprentices and things like trade magazines and other memorabilia.

"I think the exhibition will appeal to people's curiosity. There are enough unusual things on show to cover everyone's taste."