A new way to look into the heritage of the buildings of Malton and Norton has been launched.

The Woodhams Stone Collection has recreated its town trails digitally.

John Blanchard, of the Woodhams Stone Collection, said: "The towns of Malton and Norton host some wonderful buildings, many of which have stood for 150 years or more.

" Our heritage trails give insight into some of the stories behind these buildings and the businesses that have occupied them."

John added: "The trails, collectively with more than 100 locations, are being re-launched this October with a difference - they’ve gone digital!.

“We’ll still be taking people with us back in time with the Heritage Trails but they will be delivered using interactive maps on our website. That means the trails will be accessible continually and it will be so much easier to add locations or update the information or images,”

The maps show a series of markers. Clicking on a marker reveals an historic image and accompanying narrative. There’s also a recent image so those living ‘out of area’ can see what things look like now.

John added: “The trails provide an ideal opportunity to see images of how we were and discover more about our rich local heritage. What’s more, you can follow the map markers on your mobile device as you actually walk the streets, or do it all from the comfort of your armchair.

“Our aim is for both trails to be a comfortable walk and to present fascinating photographs and facts, and we shouldn’t forget the people who added colour to the towns in yesteryear. You’ll discover among others the bryologist, the builder with a fear of being buried alive, the grocer who objected vehemently to smallpox vaccination, and the first manager of the Malton and Norton Co-op who set up his own business in Norton and more.” added John.

“As an organisation run by volunteers and without any public funding we are delighted to attract interest and funding from local businesses.

John added: “This could not have been achieved without the enthusiastic help from local businesses and our own volunteers. There are now 66 locations on the Malton trail and 39 on the Norton trail and we have more locations ready to add in the coming months. Of course, here at the Malton and Norton Heritage Centre we don’t pretend to know everything, so do get in touch if you have more information or images suitable for the trails.”

Denys Townsend, owner of Linton Pet Shop in Malton's market place, said: "Our business is very pleased to support the Malton Heritage Trail as it relaunches in this new format, the town has a rich local heritage with many old buildings and stories to match."

"Exploring this trail is an easy way to learn about Malton's history and much more.” Sponsorship of the Norton Trail for the month of October comes from W. Clifford Watts Ltd.

David Watts, director, said “Our Whitewall Quarry has supplied Aggregates and Building products to the people of Malton & Norton for nearly 100 years. W Clifford Watts are proud to have worked with the local economies, including agriculture, horse racing, commercial, the construction industry and private customers. We wish to support the Woodhams Stone Collection in its efforts to promote and educate. We believe the networks of trade and community are as important today as they were in the past. The trails will hopefully help people realise a sense of place, and understand that in an increasingly globalised world, local economies are worth preserving.”

The Woodhams Stone Collection was formed in 2011 to secure the future of two very significant local history collections for the communities of Malton and Norton-on-Derwent – those of Sid Woodhams and John Stone.

For more information go to maltonandnortonheritagecentre.com and follow the menu link to the Heritage Trails.