People in Wantage are being invited to explore the hidden side of their town - by looking inside some of its more unusual buildings.

Jim Moley For two days, people will have a chance to learn more about the town's fascinating past, joining one-off tours of private historic buildings. The open days will take visitors and townspeople behind the scenes in areas normally out-of-bounds to the public.

Among the buildings open are the 17th century Old Church House, in Priory Road, The Priory - a former boys' school which dates from the 16th century - also in Priory Road, Wantage CofE Infants School, which has listed, biblical-themed ceiling paintings, and the eighth century parish church of Saints Peter and Paul.

The open days, on Saturday, September 8 and Sunday, September 9, are part of a national programme of events.

The events are supported by a number of bodies including the Council of Europe, the Heritage Lottery Fund and English Heritage.

Heritage Days Co-ordinator Jim Moley, who represents Wantage on Oxfordshire County and the Vale of White Horse District Councils, said: "Heritage Open Days aim to stimulate public awareness of heritage by allowing free access to properties normally closed to the public.

"Wantage shares a truly rich heritage which is quite properly celebrated on these days. I hope people make use of this free opportunity to join in."