DOCUMENTS depicting working life in the early part of the century have been entrusted into the care of Billinge Historic Society.

They are copious records of Billinge Collieries Limited, incorporating Birchley and Brownheath Collieries 1911-1934.

The records include minute books, share certificates, wage books and correspondence. From these it is understood that Rachel Barnes (nee Ward) is the only survivor of the company.

Brownheath Colliery employed around 180 locals in its heyday, and the Society wish to contact anyone whose relatives worked there or at Birchley.

The Society is also compiling a History of Billinge for presentation to local libraries, and a Heritage website is under construction.

Presentations to schools and over-60s clubs are included in the agenda.

Membership of Billinge Historic Society is available by contacting the secretary on 892553.