FROM rebellious punks to bowl-cut hairstyles, a new exhibit shows off the joys of being a teenager in times gone by.

Age UK Bolton has teamed up with the Museum of Youth Culture (MYC) in London as part of the Grown Up Britain project to create a display of photos, stories and memories at Bolton Library.

Over 50s lived through some of the most iconic times as teenagers and young adults, including the swinging 60s, Mods and Rockers, and New Romantics.

Residents were invited to submit photos as part of the project. At the display people can share their favourite memories of being young on a map of Bolton.

Communications officer James Bailey said: “It is an exciting prospect to display some of the many photos we have been sent and share some fantastic memories from Bolton’s over 50s population, and we have had a great response over the past few months we have been asking for submissions.

“Bolton has a rich history and it has been wonderful to dip into some of the culture that people remember from their younger days. It’s incredible to see photos of what Bolton’s over 50s were doing as teenagers and young adults, to see the places, spaces and venues.

“As well as to hear memories and stories of the pubs and clubs, the music scenes and festivals as well as the day to day life of work, education and things like learning to drive, going to the match or moving out.”

The MYC is a new emerging museum dedicated to the styles, sounds and social movements innovated by young people over the last 100 years.

Throughout the pandemic the museum has received thousands of submissions from the public through an online campaign, ‘Grown Up in Britain’ inviting the public to submit their own photos, showing what it was like growing up across the country and challenging traditional stereotypes about young people.

Lisa Der Weduwe, museum spokesman, added: "We believe everyone has an important story to tell about being young.

“We’re excited to be working with Age UK to collect and celebrate stories of being young in Bolton, with an exhibition in Bolton Library.”

The exhibit will be in the Bolton Library Foyer from July 20-30.