A working model of the machine used to make the world-renowned Accrington Nori brick has gone on display in the Market Hall.

The scaled down version of the 1909 Double Brick Press machine was created by the late Thurston Smith, who worked at the brickworks, in the 1970s.

After the factory’s closure, owners Hanson Building Products donated the machine to Hyndburn council and earlier this week it was unveiled in its new home.

Mr Smith, who passed away in 1984 aged 76, took measurements of the original machine because it was the last factory in the area using it to produce bricks.

His daughter Pauleen Smith, who attended the unveiling ceremony, said she was delighted to see his work go on display.

She said: “I think it is fabulous and it was a bit emotional when it was finally unveiled.

“It’s a great testament to him and I’m really glad it’s here.

Mr Smith, of Chequers, Clayton-le-Moors, spent thousands of hours making the working replica between 1978 and 1980 and used the bricks as a platform for his model steam engines which are stationed at Oswaldtwistle Mills.

Pauleen added: “When he made the steam engines they were mounted on bricks so he needed to make a brick machine. That’s how it came about.”

The historic Nori brick was produced at works next to the Whinney Hill quarry in Huncoat for around 120 years but ceased production in 2008.

The bricks have been used in the construction of some of the world’s most iconic buildings including the Empire State Building and Blackpool Tower.

The model was unveiled by Mayor Judith Addison.

She said: “We are really grateful to Hanson’s for their kind donation of the mini brick press machine.

“It really is a feat of amazing engineering skills and a wonderful reminder of Nori brick’s place in local folklore and the history and heritage of the area.”

Hyndburn Heritage and History Museum volunteer Bernard Scully was one of a team of people to help bring the project together.

He said: “We’re really excited about this as it’s such a massive part of the borough’s history and will be a real feature for people to come and see.

“This will make a fabulous addition to the local history displays we already have, which have proved really popular.”