TV CHIEFS are appealing to elderly Darwen folk to cast their minds back to when they played host to an unusual visitor. . . Mahatma Gandhi.

The Indian legend visited Darwen in 1931 at the invitation of the Society of Friends - the Quakers - as part of the International Peace Movement.

Part of his tour of Lancashire's cotton belt included a stay at the Garden Village near Darwen with Charles Howarth, followed by a Saturday morning tour of Darwen itself.

He later met a group of workers from nearby mills to discuss their work and conditions.

Now, Granada Television wants to make a one hour TV documentary about his remarkable visit to the area and are appealing to locals for their recollections and memories of the visit.

They are especially interested in hearing from mill workers and Quakers who may have met Gandhi and those who have photos of his exciting visit.

His visit took place during his reign as President of the Indian National Congress, and although he never held political office, he was seen by the population as the region's spiritual and political leader as well as a prime mover in obtaining independence for India.

If you have a story to tell about Gandhi's visit, call Terri or Marc at Granada Television on (0161) 832 3327.

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