PICTURES dating back to the 18th century through to today show the changing face of Horwich in a new exhibition. The History of Arcon charts the life and times of one of the town's most important and best known industrial landmarks.

It features photographs and illustrations dating from the time when the site was home to the Arcon Bleach Works through to the modern day, as it is transformed into a residential development by Redrow Homes.

Organisers said the official opening of the exhibition at the weekend was busy with people queueing to get into the site, off Chorley Old Road.

Lesley Myers, area sales manager for Redrow Homes, said: "As Arcon Village is such an important part of Horwich's history, we often have people dropping into the marketing suite to speak to our sales consultant, to find out what improvements we're making here. So we thought an exhibition was the perfect way to show local people how we're restoring the remains of the past.

"We held a launch event on the Thursday prior to the official opening, when around 70 people attended, and then to have queues over the weekend was fabulous.

"Local people were really interested in viewing old pictures from the bleach works, as well as reading all about its past - all in the modern environment we've created through our refurbishment."

Once known as Wallsuches, the area was acquired by the Ridgeway family in the late 18th century, who established the bleach works on the site.

The family business rapidly grew into a successful company.

At its peak, it was the largest such industry in the area, with a 461-strong workforce.

But mounting difficulties in the textile industry forced the works to close in 1933 after 150 years.

The site was passed on to Arcon Engineering in 1950.

Lesley added: "We have dedicated a huge amount of time and money into sensitively restoring the buildings that were once part of the Arcon Bleach Works, in keeping with their Grade II listed status."

Once completed, Arcon Village will consist of around 140 apartments, town houses and mews-style cottages.

All properties are being restored in accordance with Grade II listed building guidelines to ensure they retain the essence of the town's industrial heritage.

The exhibition will be open until the end of the month, daily from 10am to 5.30pm.

More about the project can be found by logging on to www.arconvillage.co.uk