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The town’s historic Paradise Mill came to life this week when a film crew used the working museum as a set.

The Park Lane museum will appear in the Co-operative Group’s new film The Rochdale Pioneers, which tells the story of the Co-op movement which began  in Rochdale in 1844.

Tour guide Mike Scott and volunteers Ian Richardson and Jim Howard Finch, were on hand to show the actors how to operate the machinery and also  appeared as mill workers in a couple of shots.

Grandfather-of-two Mike, who lives in Macclesfield, said: “I’ve always thought that the mill is ideal for a film location.

“It’s very photogenic. There were a couple of things from the 20th century we had to take out, but not much.

“It’s the kind of place that talks to you.”

Mike added: “It was a very long process but we enjoyed it.

“It certainly brings it home how hard it would have been to spend your whole day weaving and there were no lights on so it showed what a dreary place it would have been.”

He added: “As far as the museum is concerned it’s good publicity for people coming along to have a look and hopefully now other companies will see its potential and use it too.”

The museum, which has a collection of 26 jacquard hand looms, was chosen in lieu of a suitable working mill in Rochdale.

John Montegrande, the film’s co-director, said: “The Jacquard looms at Paradise Mill have been lovingly restored to their original working condition.

“This, along with the beautifully preserved mill, provide the perfect backdrop for our 1844 Flannel Weavers’ Mill.

“In addition, the functioning looms meant that one of our chief characters, William Cooper, could operate the machinery during the scene.”

The film, which also features actor John Henshaw – known for roles in Early Doors and Born and Bred – is due to be screened at the Co-operative world festival in Manchester in autumn.

For more information about the film go to the website: www.co-operative.coop/2012 .