A WHOLE community is being encouraged to help care for what museum staff call "Bolton's best kept secret".

Hall i'th'Wood museum -- former home of spinning mule inventor Samuel Crompton -- is tucked away in a wooded area near a big council estate off Crompton Way.

And its surroundings are looking tatty.

Teams of volunteer pupils from Canon Slade School have been helping Bolton Museum Service's education and access officer Peter Brown to spruce up the grounds.

But Peter, who has already made great strides in reviving interest in the living history of Hall i'th'Wood, wants more local people to get involved.

He is trying to get people of all ages in the neighbourhood to help with caring for the approaches and become involved in the day to day life of the museum.

To get the ball rolling, he is organising a "Design a Sign" competition.

As well as prizes in age groups, the overall winner will see their work on signs and posters promoting the museum.

The categories are for under 12, 12 to 16 years, and adult.

"What we need is a design that reflects the history, surroundings and style of Hall i'th'Wood and its collections," said Peter. "The size of the artwork and the choice of materials is up to the artist."

Closing date for entries is January 31, 2001. More information on 01204 332250.