AN appeal has gone out for information about an unusual landmark in Hartlepool.

It is hoped to discover more about Dead Man's Hollow, part of the 100-acre Summerhill site being developed by Hartlepool Borough Council for a range of sports, outdoor pursuits and conservation.

The hollow is thought to have been a quarry and its macabre name is believed to originate from a hanging there about 200 years ago.

However, little else is known about the site which is why Jenny Phillips, the landscape interpretation officer at Summerhill, is now asking for help.

Her post is financed by the Heritage Lottery Fund and most of her work involves promoting the site's archaeological and historical importance.

Ms Phillips said: "The strange thing is that while regular archaeological digs have helped us to learn lots about Summerhill's ancient history, when it comes to other features, such as Dead Man's Hollow, our knowledge is very sketchy.

"Hopefully, there may be people out there with anecdotal information that could help us build up a more comprehensive picture of the hollow's past. It would also be great if we could get some old photos, which we will, of course, return."

Ms Phillips can be contacted on (01429) 284584.