VISITORS to Malmesbury Abbey could find themselves banged-up in the “blind house” on Saturday – the town’s tiny 18th century lock-up.

As part of Heritage Open Day activities people will be given the chance to spend some time in The Tolsey Gate Lock-up.

Historian Charles Vernon said: “They can experience being locked up with no home comforts in total darkness for at least a minute.

“Certificates will be issued to those who last the longest.”

The event is being organised by Malmesbury Civic Trust in association with the Parochial Church Council.

The Tolsey was purpose-built in 1789 and used until around 1854, when the police station along with a cell was built.

Mr Vernon said: “Lock-ups of this type were known as blind houses. Drunks would be taken there by the parish constables.

“On waking in the morning they were unable to see anything because there were no openings allowing in the light, so they thought they were blind.”

When no longer required as a lock-up it was used to store the Malmesbury fire engine.

The blind house will be open from 9.30am to 1.30pm.