A SUCCESSFUL museum built around one of the region's favourite landmarks celebrates its coming of age this week.

The giant water wheel at Killhope became a symbol for the region's industrial heritage as soon as it was restored and rebuilt at the North of England Lead Mining Museum, in Upper Weardale, County Durham.

Killhope itself had welcomed its first visitors four years earlier, in 1984, a 40p admission fee allowing a view of displays in the mine shop.

Now, 21 years later, with 75 workers and a string of awards to its name, the centre is throwing a party for all the people who have played their part in its development over the years.

Manager Ian Forbes has a vision for the museum as a model for renewable energy.

He said: "When Killhope's massive water wheel was first made, it was at the cutting edge of renewable energy technology.

"We can build on that theme for the 21st Century and demonstrate today's green solutions to the problems of energy generation.

"We can use our natural resources to become an exemplar of best practice in renewable energy and play a key role in the continued development of sustainable tourism in the North Pennines."

Five hundred balloons will be launched at the anniversary party on Friday when the speaker will be Government chief whip and North-West Durham MP Hilary Armstrong.

On Saturday, there are workshops for youngsters, who can make party hats and take part in a duck race.

Published: 17/05/2005