YOUNG history buffs are being sought to dig through a minefield of information to save part of Bolton’s past.

Schoolchildren in Bolton have a chance to investigate the untold stories of the town’s old mining headquarters after the discovery of historical records dating from 1914 in the basement.

The old head offices of the Lancashire and Cheshire Miners’ Federation were based in Bridgeman Place, in the town centre.

In a Heritage Lottery Funded project, children are being asked to examine the records and piece together the federation’s untold history.

Joy Sewart, head of skills development at Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, said: “We decided to put in a heritage lottery bid to give young people the opportunity to find out about Bolton’s mining history using the archives of one of the most historical buildings in Bolton.

“They will get the chance to design an archive tool that will last forever for generations to come.

“They will also learn how to work together as a team and run their own project.

Documents include a review of a performance which took place in the Miners’ Hall from the Bolton Journal and Guardian from December 12, 1919.

The foundation stones of the Lancashire and Cheshire Miners’ Federation stone and brick headquarters building, designed by Bolton architects Bradshaw, Gas and Hope, were laid in 1913.

Its construction followed the founding of the organisation in 1881 as miners protesting against against their pay and work conditions and in the aftermath of a bitter seven-week strike and several unions merged. The building later became the headquarters of the Bolton and Bury Chamber of Commerce.

The project is open to schools in Bolton aged 14-15 and is free to take part in. To get involved ask your school to email youngchamber@gmchamber.co.uk or call 0161 393 4321.