DID you know that screen comedy greats Charlie Chaplin and Stan Laurel trod the boards at the Argyle Theatre in Birkenhead before making it big in Hollywood?

Or that Cammell Laird was responsible for building many of the world's most important ships - including the first steel paddle steamer, which transported 19th Century Scottish missionary Dr Livingstone on his legendary expedition up the Zambezi River?

These and thousands of other treasures from Wirral's illustrious past are waiting to be uncovered as part of two exhibitions marking the North West archive festival next month.

Wirral Museum in Hamilton Square, Birkenhead hosts two exhibitions from September 12. Both exhibitions tell the story of Wirral life. On display are records of the borough's Government, businesses and people dating back to the 15th century.

The first exhibition, 'Words of war' focuses on how written war records held within the archive collections evoke the emotions and feelings brought on by wartime. The second exhibition - 'What's in the box?' aims to promote archive exploration and gives children hands-on experience of using the archive service.

Emma Challinor, from Wirral archivist service, says: "We're throwing open our doors and want everyone to discover and enjoy the area's hidden treasures. Our archives are full of fascinating facts and we're eager for everyone to experience the joy of unearthing an interesting fact and learn more about our proud heritage."

The festival - a partnership between the North West Museums, Libraries and archives council and the North West Regional Archive Council - is the first time archives services, libraries, museums and community groups have commemorated the region's history together. To kick-start the festival, the North West archival treasury will be announced on August 30, with the best 30 archive treasures in the region named.