SOME of Menston's more knowledgeable

residents are asking for help in their efforts to preserve local history for youngsters in the village.

Members of Menston Millennium Local History Project are hard at work putting together pieces of the village's heritage, which they plan to transfer to a CD-Rom for pupils of Menston Primary School.

But even the extensive historical knowledge of members - many of whom are long-time residents of Menston - has failed to solve the mystery of two photographs.

The pictures were lent to the group, but even their owners know little about the pictures, and the group is seeking help from anyone in the area who knows what they are about.

Project co-ordinator Ros Steel said: "The one of the 82 men is thought to be the Menston Battalion, which was formed around 1915.

The location for the photograph is the Menston cricket field behind The Fox pub. Apparently, the volunteer force was to be a form of civil defence."

The second picture, however, is even more of a mystery.

Mrs Steel said the 15 people in the picture may have been on a works outing. The vintage bus - or charabanc - carrying the villagers, has 'Blackpool' written on the side of it.

Mrs Steel said: "If any of your readers could help with the identification of both

photographs, we would be very grateful."

If anyone has any information, they can write to Wharfedale Newspapers, 9 Orchard Gate, Otley, LS21 3NX, or telephone the reporters on (01943) 465555.