'THE largest heritage restoration project' in Leigh's history has received a £55,000 boost via grants.

Leigh Building Preservation Trust, the charity committed to regenerating Leigh Spinners Mill, will use the money to continue the redevelopment of the historic engine house at the iconic grade II* listed site, opening it up to even more visitors and making their experience more enjoyable.

The engine house is the first phase of a larger initiative to regenerate the mill, which had fallen into a state of disrepair, into a vibrant business and community hub offering a range of commercial, heritage, leisure and community spaces.

A team of steam engine enthusiasts has already begun the challenging task of restoring the Yates and Thom twin horizontal cross compound engine, which is the third largest of its kind in the UK.

John Hurst, chairman of the Leigh Spinners Engine Group, said: "This is the largest unrestored mill engine in the UK and the largest heritage restoration project ever undertaken in Leigh.

"We have welcomed almost 1,000 visitors since we opened up the engine house in September. Not only locals wishing to have a peep into the past but some from as far afield as Russia, Zimbabwe and Australia.

"Th e grant money gives us the opportunity to carry on with the repair of the engine and to create a space to accommodate schools and group visits.

"Because of the construction work we would urge anybody wishing to visit the engine house over the next few weekends to check out the opening times on the Friends of Leigh Spinners Facebook page."