CHILDREN and their families were given the chance to explore the history behind some of Colchester’s greatest heritage assets.

The Headgate Theatre and Roman Circus Centre in Colchester opened their doors as part of Heritage Open Days.

At each venue families were offered tours and got to take part in various activities and listen to talks.

At the Roman Circus Centre, special art-themed activities were set out for children.They included drawing and creating their own 3D Roman circus.

Families went behind the scenes at the Headgate Theatre.

Dawn King, who looks after the education in performing arts at the Headgate Theatre, said: “It was a great success, we had 75 people come along and of those 19 have registered to volunteer with us.

“Everybody was really impressed with how we have managed to connect the theatre back to the old church hall and Sunday school. It has a really interesting history that we didn’t know too much about.”

There was also a prop making session and the lighting and sound bosses gave a tour.

Staff are now looking to find out more about the building’s history.

Dawn said: “We are keen to find out about when it was the Labour Club and the Palm Springs Health Centre. We would be interested to hear people’s memories.”

Call 01206 366000.