NORTHWICH'S historic salt miners have been paid tribute to as 'The Salt of the Earth'.

A plaque has been placed on a brick pier outside the outdoor market in the town, opposite the Guardian office.

The plaque was developed by Vale Royal Borough Council, in conjunction with the Northwich and District Heritage Society and Northwich Town Council.

The plaque was unveiled by the Mayor of Vale Royal, Clr Steve Gough, last Thursday.

Clr Gough said: "It is a delight to unveil a plaque that acknowledges and celebrates the work of the salt makers in Northwich.

"It is also a pleasure to see the partnership working, which has brought this plaque to fruition."

Heritage Society president Stuart Hogg said: "We produced this salt makers plaque because there's nothing in the town centre which refers to the town's heritage as one of the country's leading salt producers."