An exciting new internet project is offering a 24-hour window on the past using images and information from a unique selection of Essex museum treasures.

Web surfers can now view highlights from museum collections across the county. These include a glove belonging to Mary Queen of Scots, Wallace the famous Victorian lion, a Viking pin with a head in the shape of a pig, rare Roman coins and an Egyptian mummy coffin lid.

Museums in Epping, Chelmsford, Colchester, Harlow, Thurrock and Saffron Walden have contributed data and images towards the test website - located at www.essexcc.gov.uk/museums - that is set to run until March 31 next year.

Welcoming the site's launch, Essex County Council member for lifelong learning said: "We hope that people of all ages and casual researchers looking for information on their community will use and enjoy the package. Their comments and ideas for the future of the site will be most welcome."

Under the scheme, comments and suggestions from site users are being sought to help progress the project. As a bonus for visitors who take time to complete a feedback form before leaving the site, there is the chance to win a £50 book or software token in a free prize draw.

According to a county council spokesman, the test website's development costs have been met by Essex County Council and its partners in the districts.

Next February is expected to see a bid to extend the project to allow the site to be fully developed. This would enable the inclusion of information and images from any Essex museum wishing to take part.

The spokesman emphasised that in the meantime, anyone who does not have internet access at home or work is encouraged to access the website through their local library.

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.