MEMORIES of Northwich, which open a window into how the town has changed over the years, have been made available as part of a heritage project.

Living Memories is a collection of audio recordings from people living in the town and its neighbouring villages sharing their experiences, some strethcing as far back as the 1940s.

The recordings were made by Cheshire West and Chester Council staff as part of the Northwich Townscape Heritage Project.

Cllr Louise Gittins, council leader cabinet member for culture and arts, said: "The Townscape Heritage Project preserves the historic heritage of Northwich for future generations, perfectly complementing the ambitious modern development of the town.

"The fabric of Northwich is its people. Living Memories illustrates the character of the town with the stories of the people who have called it home throughout the years.

"I encourage everyone who loves Northwich to listen to these recordings, as we look fondly back at the town’s history and prepare for its exciting future."

The recordings can be accessed online on the Townscape Heritage Project website.

A council spokesman added: "The council would like to thank all involved for their time and willingness to share their unique stories, and help to piece together Northwich’s history.

"Living Memories is part of the Northwich Townscape Heritage Project, which enabled improvements to 14 of the unique traditional timber-framed buildings in Witton Street and High Street in Northwich town centre."

The project was funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund partnership grant scheme with Cheshire West and Chester Council, and has been supported by Northwich Business Improvement District (BID).

As well as improvements to frontages and restoring heritage features, the project has also included initiatives to promote the heritage and the history of the buildings to residents, visitors and businesses have also been funded by the project.

This includes an education programme for local schools such as a town trail, numerous stalls, exhibitions, community events, and walking tours, as well as Heritage Open Days.