ANTIQUE birthday cards almost 90 years old have returned to their original home.

The collection of Salvation Army cards was discovered in a house clearance by former Barrow junior solider Malcolm Richards.

Mr Richards, who now lives in the Scottish Borders, has since donated the cards to their first home in Abbey Road.

Included in the collection is a set of special cards sent to children attending Sunday school in the period between the wars.

Dating from 1919 onwards, the cards give messages of joy and blessing to children, and remain in excellent condition.

Lt Martin Davison of Barrow Salvation Army said: "We are very grateful to Malcom. The cards have already created interest as they recall a period when many children attended the Salvation Army Sunday school in the town.

"We are indebted to the kindness of those people who took the care and support of children seriously in our Sunday schools.

"Even today, people refer to fond memories of times spent in the church and the Christian love shown to them. It is a great legacy and clearly was much appreciated."

The cards will be on display alongside other heritage items in the citadel building over the summer. Among them is the iconic timbrel, still used in meetings today, with its yellow, red and blue ribbons.

The exhibition includes period red tunics and uniforms, bonnets, brass band instruments, and old music and songbooks.

Anyone with a particular memory from Sunday school or a related item from a family member during the time is urged to contact the Salvation Army.