KNUTSFORD’S rich history will take centre stage on Thursday, as the town is celebrated in a primetime BBC documentary.

Michael Portillo in his programme ‘Great British Railway Journeys’ will explore one of the town’s most treasured icons, Elizabeth Gaskell.

Portillo, a journalist and former Conservative MP and cabinet member, visited Knutsford in May 2015 to learn more about Mrs Gaskell and her connections with the town.

As part of the documentary, Portillo visited the Heritage Centre and was given a guided tour of Gaskell hotspots before visiting Brook Street Chapel where the authoress is buried.

Diana Stenson, a volunteer tour guide for the Heritage Centre, offered to lead Portillo around the town and be interviewed for the show.

“Diana was wonderful, she really made the town proud,” said Val Bryant trustee of the Heritage Centre.

“She came across incredibly well when she was interviewed about Elizabeth Gaskell.

“The whole thing started with a phone call from the researchers saying that he was coming and I said that the Heritage Centre would gladly give him a tour, linking in with Elizabeth Gaskell.

“He was really lovely and nice man, easy to get on with and seemed to have a genuine interest in Knutsford, and the other places he visits.

“He had definitely done his research with Elizabeth Gaskell and spoke at length with Diana about her.”

The programme sees Portillo travel along the railways of British using George Bradshaw’s Victorian railway guidebook, visiting various locations on route.

“I hope the whole programme makes the town proud,” Val added.

“I know that many people watch it and all of the enquires will come through to the heritage centre which will be good for us to promote our lovely town.

“We should be highly honoured that this will be shown around the country.”

Michael Portillo’s Great British Railway Journeys from St Helens to Knutsford will air on BBC Two on Thursday, January 7 from 6.30pm.