HISTORIC mill stables that have been unused since 1926 have opened to the public for the first time.

The Queen Street Mill stables, in Harle Syke, Burnley, have opened following renovations which restored them to how they would have looked during the latter part of the 19th century.

The stables were built around 1894 to house the horses that transported cotton to and from the mill but it was decided in 1926 that they could not be used as they were no longer economical.

Two animals from the Horses and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA) were at the stables on Thursday and Friday, including retired police horse Bramley Jack.

Julie Jackson, farm manager for HAPPA, said: “It’s great to be involved in the opening of the stables at Queen Street Mill.

“As a local attraction based in our village we are very happy to support this event.

“I think it is a wonderful reminder to all generations just how important a role horses have made in our history and specifically the textile industry which was so important to Burnley.”

Admission to the museum is free for children and Burnley residents, or £3 for adults and £2 concessions.

For more information contact the museum on 01282 412555 or visit www.lancashire.gov.uk