SUNBATHING on the beach and enjoying a picnic on the prom filled bygone days in West Bank with fun and laughter.

Enthusiasts now plan to recapture the past in the community's first ever Heritage Festival, thanks to a £37,700 heritage lottery fund grant.

"It is really exciting," said Fiona Jenkins, 29, project development officer. "It will be my job to collect photographs and memorabilia.

"People's stories are fascinating. I'm looking forward to meeting everyone."

A week long Heritage Festival at St Mary's Church will culminate in an action packed festival day on Sunday, September 12. Costumes and food from bygone days, entertainment, music and traditional customs promise to make it a unique event.

Festival co-ordinator John Yates, said: "We're keen to hear from anyone who has lived in West Bank, their stories, memories and borrow their family photographs.

"There used to be 6,500 residents."

Eight pubs, seven churches and countless shops created a bustling community for migrant chemical workers and thousands of passengers crossing on the Old Transporter.

The heritage festival follows the success of last year's prom centenary celebrations.

"We received so many old photographs, we decided to do something before they were lost forever," said John.

An illustrated book and archive will create a permanent record.

If you have stories, pictures, press cuttings, films, slides, videos or sports, church or community records, call Fiona Jenkins at Catalyst on 0151-420 1121.