THE Tom Leonard Mining Museum is appealing for help to compile a 40th anniversary display on the closure of the last mine in the Great Cleveland Iron Ore Field.

North Skelton Mine was closed in 1964 and staff at the museum, which has now been purchased by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council following a dispute over land, are hoping that members of the public will supply photographs and documents to help with the display.

The museum committee is also looking for volunteers who are prepared to offer their skills to help with their plans for redevelopment, which will include displays of equipment and social history.

Peter Tuffs, chairman of the museum, said: "This opens a new era in the museum's development.

"Much of our heritage from the ironstone mining industry is as relevant and exciting as it was in the Great Iron Rush of 1850.

"With the museum's future secure, there is an opportunity to develop the site as a first class visitor attraction. Our staff and volunteers are more than equal to the task of developing the museum's facilities and I have every confidence in the future."

Last season 6,500 people visited the museum.

To volunteer, contact Barrie Pell on (01287) 642970.

Anyone who can help with the display of photographs of documents, which will be copied and returned once the display is mounted, is asked to call Janette Holt on (01287) 280008.