Trip back to Victorian times

Victorian street urchins have invaded Blists Hill, giving the Ironbridge Gorge living museum a new dimension.

The Street Kids project at the Blists Hill Victorian Town offers children between the ages of nine and 13 the chance to become part of the museum experience.

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The 21st century children are travelling back in time to become living exhibits in one of Shropshire's top tourist attractions.

Free workshops are being held through the summer, teaching children about life in the Victorian era while they dress up in costume.

Emma Woodhouse, the project co-ordinator, said the youngsters, supervised by adult volunteers, would get a real insight into what life was like for children in the 19th century at both work and play.

With no mobile phones or PlayStations, Victorian children had to make their own entertainment, such as stilt-walking or playing with hoops and sticks.

And there were always chores for Victorian children, whether getting their hands dirty by mucking out on the farm or learning how to shine shoes.

Children in the Classroom is another workshop in which modern-day children can get involved.

"We have almost 30 children involved but would love to see more," Emma said.

"As well as having a great time, they actually become part of the visitor attraction."

The Street Kids project is also looking for adult volunteers all of whom will be CRB checked.

Part of the Government's Pathfinder scheme, the project encourages young people to get involved with out-of-school activities.

There is funding for the scheme for the next 12 months and Blists Hill officials hope that can be extended.

Anyone interested in joining up should contact Blists Hill on (01952) 601010.

Bosses of the Ironbridge Gorge Museums Trust are hoping for a big boost in visitors at Blists Hill this summer, thanks to the recent completion of a new Canal Street and artisans' quarter.

Part of a £12 million redevelopment, the new street is lined on both sides with a parade of shops, including a draper's, an outfitters, a Post Office, a photographer's and a sweetshop.

The artisans' quarter includes a plumber's, a tinsmith's and a decorative plasterer's shop.