ANCIENT Egypt will come alive this week in a new exhibition at Bolton Museum.

"From a Modern Land. Ancient Egyptian textiles: Contemporary Paintings" will include ancient artefacts alongside contemporary art inspired by them.

Bolton's valuable collection of archaeological textiles, the fruit of British excavations in Egypt, is one of the most significant in Europe.

But because they are so delicate the items are rarely displayed. The exhibition will give people the chance to the items alongside paintings by artist Ros Ford.

It will also highlight the links between ancient and modern Egypt, as well as changes that have taken place over the ages.

Ms Ford, whose work is based on images of contemporary life, ancient icons and Coptic textiles, has lived in Egypt.

She said: "This collaboration has given me the opportunity to base work on the textiles and other ancient Egyptian artefacts in the museum's collection.

"Working alongside museum staff has given me a deeper insight into the history and craft of the pieces.

"This has brought another perspective to the museum's collection, which we hope the public will now enjoy."

Cllr Ismail Ibrahim, Bolton Council's executive member for culture and community services, said: "We are rightly proud of our Egyptian collection, which is one of the best in Europe The exhibition takes place in the Egyptian Gallery at the museum in Le Mans Crescent and runs from tomorrow until May 15.

Ms Ford will also be giving a tour of the exhibition on Tuesday, May 1, at 5.15pm.

More details are available on 01204 332211 or at www.boltonmuseums.org.uk