VILLAGERS preparing a new book about their past are appealing for snap-happy residents to send in their photographs.

The St Helen and West Auckland Amenity Association has been given cash from the Heritage Lottery fund to produce its own publication, called Tomorrow's History.

Contributors do not need to go too far back in time.

Chairman Martin Roberts said: "We want pictures of the recent past so that current residents can recognise family members, friends, and perhaps themselves in their youth. It has got to be an enjoyable book as well as an educational one.

"We know of a number of sources of old photographs in libraries and archives, but we would like to include many taken by local residents of social events, jubilee celebrations, football teams, school photographs, village fairs, church and club outings.

"It is particularly important to have a record of those events that have now ceased."

The group would also like pictures of old village houses. The photographs will be copied and returned.

Contact Mr Roberts at Old Fleece House, Front Street, West Auckland, DL14 9HW, telephone (01388) 833214.