HISTORY buffs will be able to unlock the hidden history of a religious movement in Pendle.

The ceremonial key used to open the 19th-century Bethesda Baptist Church in Barnoldswick will be one of several artefacts on display to mark 350 years of Baptists in West Craven.

Cousins William Mitchell and David Crosley revived Baptist life in the area in 1661 linking 20 small Baptist groups called the 'Rossendale Round'.

That journey will be documented in a special exhibition at the Baptist Church Centre in Barnoldswick next month.

Along with a Festival of Flowers, Summer Fair and April’s concert featuring Arden Youth Choir, it is part of a programme of celebratory events.

Keith Whipp, secretary at the Church Centre, said: “The exhibition will include a timeline of significant events from 1661 right through to today.

“There will be photographs of the football team we had in the Nelson and Colne league, a digital display of the youth club from the 1960s and artefacts like the ceremonial key used to open the Bethesda Church on display.

“It will be good for anyone with an interest in local history.”

In the middle of the 17th century Baptists worshipped in a cottage in Walmsgate, Barnoldswick.

Today, Barnoldswick Baptist Church, Salterforth Baptist Church and Mount Zion Earby, make up the West Craven Fellowship.

Barnoldswick Baptist Church Centre was built in 1977 to serve the community as a whole.

Over the last three decades, the centre has been home to Ickthus Youth Club, Barnoldswick Luncheon Club and a parent and toddler group.

The celebrations will take place on Saturday July 9 and Sunday 10.