COUNCIL staff are turning time detectives to preserve and protect what is probably Bury's most prominent landmark.

Bury Council is drawing up plans for the improvement of Peel Tower, situated high on Holcombe Moor, ready for a funding bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund.

However, officers involved in the project are having difficulty confirming some of the more detailed aspects of the tower's original appearance.

Bury Metro's Conservation Officer, Nick Grimshaw, said: "The earliest photograph we have of the Tower is dated 1909 and unfortunately this does not show the doors or windows in any detail.

"We have searched high and low but have been unable to find anything earlier than that so now we would like to hear from anyone who may have any old photographs, prior to that date.

"Paintings or other documentation could also be useful in fact anything which would shed light on the appearance of the original doors, windows and staircases."

Built in 1852 by public subscription, Peel Tower stands on the 800-foot high Holcombe Hill and was built in memory of Prime Minister Sir Robert Peel for his act in repealing the Corn Laws of 1846.

Steep steps - 150 of them - lead to the top from where, on a clear day, views stretch as far away as North Wales.

Anyone who can assist in the search for information should write to the Borough Planning Officer at Craig House, Bank Street, Bury, BL9 0DN, or ring Nick Grimshaw, on 0161-253-5317.

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