OPEN air theatre and Schubert and Strudel are new for 2002 at Quarry Bank Mill and with an even bigger events programme there is something to entertain everyone.

Take part in a range of special activities and find out about local history as Quarry Bank Mill celebrates Local History Week from May 4-6.

The musical mayhem begins on May 5 with folk music at the Mill and continues on May 6 with Morris Dancing for all the family. There will be special tours and talks on May 15.

The Friends of Quarry bank Mill will present An Evening with Mrs Gaskell on May 15 at 7.30pm.

There will be readings from Mrs Gaskell's letters by Delia Corrie, who has worked widely in the theatre, television and radio and been a regular voice-over on World in Action, What the Papers Say and Dispatches, followed by supper with a Victorian theme.

If you have an eye for a bargain or think you can spot a masterpiece then search for Gems amongst the Junk on July 6 and 7. Visitors can also clear out their own clutter and donate it to the Mill.

Enjoy classical music on July 11 at a Schubert and Strudel evening and an open air performance of William Shakespeare's As you Like It by internationally renowned Shakespeare company Illyria on July 23.

Have a go at 19th century needlework techniques, including rag rugging, darning and patchwork, as part of Sewing Week from July 30 to August 2. There will be more practical activities to be enjoyed during Cooking Week at the Apprentice House from August 6-9.

Following its 150-year-old wakes tradition, Quarry Bank Mill will be celebrating the annual factory holiday on August 25 and 26 at the Wakes Fair.

Families will be able to take part in traditional games and events that workers would have enjoyed on one of their rare holidays from the Mill.

Savour Italian cuisine at Pasta with Puccini on September 12 and enjoy a selection of opera favourites performed by pupils from the Royal Northern College of Music.

Experience an evening of excitement and risk at a Las Vegas Evening on December 13, 14, 20 and 21 and enjoy a four-course gala champagne dinner, play Roulette and Black Jack with expert croupiers and then dance the night away.

For further event information and bookings call Quarry Bank Mill on 01625 539267.