A RECENT move to a new office has unearthed a collection of printing samples revealing hidden details about a town's past.

Printer and stationer A A Sotheran recently moved to a new office when the firm refurbished part of its Queen Street premises in Redcar. Clearing out the cupboards and attics brought to light scores of old printing samples, posters and engraved printing plates, some dating back to the beginning of the 1890s. The oldest engraving shows a plan of Redcar dated 1861.

The Borough of Redcar Town Guide of 1958 records that the town had a population of 28,000 and visitors could hire a rowing boat in Locke Park for a shilling. The guide includes pictures of the Rollerdrome, Redcar's own roller-skating rink, the town's swimming baths, miniature golf courses and shows a beach packed with thousands of visitors.

The Coronation Bazaar programme celebrated the Coronation of King Edward VII in 1911. The Redcar Literary Institute organised a week of festivities over the Easter weekend including a military band, Redcar Orchestra, marionette shows and side shows.

Peter Sotheran, managing director of the family run printing business, said the entire collection had been donated to Kirkleatham Old Hall Museum, where it is to be added to the collection of local material. "These booklets and programmes paint a fascinating picture of the leisure and social activities of Redcar 50 and 100 years ago," he said