A historic lock in Worcester is marking its 180th birthday with a special event.

Diglis Locks will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 9 from 1pm to 4pm, and will include an open afternoon on Diglis Island.

The free event will also launch an oral history project to capture memories of Diglis Locks and Island over the decades.

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The stories will be used to help future visitors discover more about the role the locks have played in the lives of many people in the area.

The story of the locks began in 1842 with the passing of the Severn Navigation Act and the opening of Lincomb Weir in 1843.

The lock was opened on October 9, 1844, and was within the estimated costs of £140,000 (a current value of around £22 million).

The open afternoon will give people a chance to explore Diglis Island and visit the its restored Victorian workshop, which was once a hive of activity for lock gate construction and lock and weir maintenance.

The workshop will house a display of archive images from the Canal & River Trust’s collection.

It is hoped that the display will inspire people to share their own experiences of Diglis Island and the locks.

Mark Miles, visitor services manager at Canal & River Trust, said: "We are delighted to be marking this anniversary with our open afternoon.

"We know a lot about our island and the locks, but we want to know more about the social history.

"There are definitely more stories and reminiscences out there.

"But time is passing and the memories fade, so we need to hear them as soon as possible, that’s why we’re launching the Diglis Island Oral History project."

He added: "If anyone has links to Diglis Island, whether from working, playing or living here, then we’d love to hear from them.

"It might be photographs, paintings or other documents relating to the Island.

"We’ll be collecting details on the afternoon and getting back in touch to record the stories.

"And if anyone cannot attend, they can contact us directly to get involved.

"We are excited to hear people’s experiences and thoughts."