FINAL preparations for a new centre which will showcase the history of Hayle are being made, ready for the grand opening at the end of the month.
Hayle Heritage Centre, based at John Harvey House on Foundry Square, will tell the story of the town through the different ages.
The opening of the centre is a "dream come true" for members of Harvey Foundry Trust, who have been working for several years on the project.
The centre will have a core exhibition on the overview of the history of Hayle, as well as a rolling programme of temporary events which will change throughout the year.
Laura Christon, project development manager at Harvey Foundry Trust, said she hopes the centre will attract people of all ages.
She said: "Hayle has needed something like this for quite a while, particularly because of its link to the World Heritage Site. We want to promote the history of Hayle, but also regenerate it."
A timeline of the history of Hayle will feature on the stairwell into the centre, where several themed panels will display information on the old harbour and railway, as well as the history of rival companies Harvey's and Cornish Copper.
Many interactive features are included, as well as oral history recordings.
A cabinet of curiosities, including several items dating back to the Second World War, will be stored, where it is hoped that Hayle residents may be able to add their own historic artefacts to the collection.
The centre is aimed at both visitors and residents in the town, with workshops and lectures catering to all.
The official opening will take place on August 29 by John Pollard, councillor for Hayle North and Harvey Foundry Trust chairman.
He said: "This is something we have dreamt about for many years and it is fantastic to see it come to fruition at last.
"We now have a focal point for the history of Hayle. Its importance and value will grow as more people use it."
The centre will be running a special sponsorship campaign based around the Cunaide Stone, thought to be from the earliest Christian burial in Cornwall, to raise funds to enable it to be moved from its current location in Hayle and rehoused in the heritage centre.
Plans for the public opening include storytelling by Mark Haradon from 10am on Friday, August 30, and a guided tour by local historian Kingsley Rickard, from the Trevithick Society, the following day at 11am.
The centre will open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday throughout September, with reduced winter hours.
Admission to the centre is free of charge.
To learn more about the activities on offer or to volunteer at the centre contact Laura Christon on 01736 757683.
