FOR the people of Whitby, their town's link with the most distant places on the globe is forever etched in history - thanks to Captain James Cook and the Endeavour.

Captain Cook came to the town in 1746, at the age of 17, to begin work as an apprentice to Captain John Walker and it was here that the skills of a seaman were fostered within him.

And when, many years later, he set out on his epic voyage aboard the Endeavour, he cemented yet further his links with Whitby - the majestic ship was built in the town.

Today in Grape Lane, by Whitby's harbour side, is a permanent reminder of the great man and his achievements - the Captain Cook Memorial Museum, which is visited by 18,000 tourists a year.

It is housed in the very building in which Cook lodged between 1746 and 1749 when it belonged to Captain John Walker's family, who were Quakers. The yard and slipway led to the harbour where the ships were serviced. Inside the building are exhibits of great historical importance, relating not only to the years Cook spent in Whitby but also to his later achievements.

There are four floors of rooms, each with a different character. You can find various aspects of Cook's illustrious naval career, which was dominated by his three great voyages of discovery to the southern hemisphere, depicted in the London Room, the Voyages Room, the Scientists' Room, the Artists' Room and the Attic, where Cook lodged as an apprentice, studying by candlelight.

The museum has recently been enlarged and refurbished, enabling it to provide further exhibition space.

The Captain Cook Memorial Museum is open until October 31 between 9.45am and 5pm daily. Admission is £2.80 for adults, £2.30 for older folk, £2 for students and £1.80 for children. A family ticket costs £7.80.

For further information, you can ring the museum on (01947) 601900.

Updated: 10:12 Wednesday, October 09, 2002