THE hunt is on for odds and ends gathering dust in people's attics that could help bring history to life for youngsters.

Hambleton and Richmondshire councils' museums department is hoping to collect enough memorabilia from the 1930s and 1940s to put in history boxes, which can then be distributed to classes around the area.

"The type of things we would like to include are childhood toys, night clothes, nurses' watches and items that typify the period, such as hot water bottles in knitted covers," said museums officer Lynda Powell.

"The loan scheme has already proved very popular with schools and of great benefit to the children.

"What better way to bring history to life than to see and feel real objects?"

Local museums will be donating exhibits to the history box collection. However, anyone else who would be happy to loan some of their own are asked to contact the museums department on (01748) 829100.