Kirkintilloch will look into the past and hold several events to coincide with Local History Week.

The national event, which will run from Saturday, March 3 until Friday 10, aims to increase awareness of local history and East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust is inviting local people to get involved.  

A number of events are being held across the locality and the week promises to offer something for everyone.  

Celebrations in Kirkintilloch include The Romans open day on Saturday, March 3 at the Auld Kirk Museum, to coincide with The Romans Were Here exhibition, running until April 28. The Antonine Guard re-enactment group will be on hand to start the celebrations and children can dress up in Roman armour or togas.

There will also be The Kirkintilloch Olympians - an exhibition to celebrate the remarkable sporting achievements of local people in the run up to the 2012 Olympics. This will take place at the William Patrick Library from Saturday, March 3 to Monday, April 2.

The library will also host activity sessions for children on Toys and Games from the Past, where youngsters can dress up in historical costumes and play with old toys. Two sessions, starting at 11am and 11.50am will be held on Saturday, March3.

Councillor Amanda Stewart, chairwoman of the Leisure and Culture Trust said: “Local History Week is an important event in the calendar and a great way for local groups to highlight their history. There are so many exciting activities happening over the course of the week and we would encourage people to come along and learn more about the history on their doorstep.”

On Saturday, 10 March at 1.30pm, people are invited on the Thomas Muir Heritage Trail which starts at Cadder Church and offers a guided tour of local places associated with the Father of Scottish democracy, finishing at Huntershill House in Bishopbriggs.

In the Lennoxtown Library, the Campsie Local History Book launch will take place on Monday, March 5 at 3pm and will celebrate the publication of the group’s latest booklet Traditional Games and Pastimes; while in Torrance, the Local History Group will hold a sports afternoon on Saturday, March 10 at 2pm at Caldwell Hall, focusing on the history of local sports and leisure activities.

To find out more about Local History Week events taking place across East Dunbartonshire please contact the East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust Information and Archives team on 0141 777 3142 or email libraries@eastdunbarton.gov.uk.