Stockport's Heritage

Viaduct Talk

2012-01-23T15:19:00.003Z

There will be a talk about Stockport Viaduct at the Arden Arms in February.

Wednesday 8th & 15th at 7.30pm.

As places are limited it is to be given on two evenings and reservations are required. This can be done at the Tourist Information Centre, the Heritage Centre, in St. Mary's Church, the Arden Arms or through Kevin Dranfield on 01614274006.

£1 on the door, members of the Heritage Trust are free.

2012 Stockport Colour Calendar

2012-01-10T16:20:00.001Z

The 2012 Stockport Colour Calendar still on sale at Stockport Heritage Centre St. Mary's Church, open market day - Now only £3

If you cannot get to the centre ring Kevin Dranfield 01614274006

click on image to enlarge

Heaton Moor Historical Society-meeting

2012-01-02T18:55:00.002Z

Dear HMHS Supporters,

Happy New Year.

The date of the next talk has had to be changed due to building work entailing the closure of the Plough pub for a few days in January.

Hence, the next talk will now be on WEDNESDAY 25th January starting at 7.30 p.m., promptly please.

The Honourable Mayor of Stockport, Cllr. Les Jones, who lives in the Heatons, will be giving us all a talk entitled 'Representing Stockport'.

I hope you can join us.

Phil ................07752 368308

Otterspool Weir

2011-12-27T15:46:00.007Z

The weir at Otterspool dates back to the time of water powered cotton mills. It was built by Jessie Howard of Stockport to run a new mill but was never completed. Nearly 200 year after work on the leet ceased this valuable source of water power is to be used to turn an Archimedean Screw which will produce electricity for the National Grid.

Work began earlier this year and is progressing well.

Stockport's Christmas Market - 2011

2011-12-02T20:40:00.009Z

The weather was good and the festive cheer plentiful, aided by the team from the Tourist Information Centre and free mulled wine.

The Trust was out in force, with our own Town Cryer, Jim Clare, 'Splat-the -Rat' and 'Roll-a-Penny' games. As well as Mr. Pickwick's Emporium but the star of the show was little Natalie who got the winning score by rolling pennies from her push chair.

Heritage Magazine Winter 2011/2012

2011-11-19T20:04:00.004Z

The Stockport Heritage magazine for winter 2011/2012 is going in the shops this week, by Friday it will be in most Co-operative stores, Martin's and small newsagents. If it is not in yours, ask them to get it for you.

This issue has articles on :-
Stockport Viaduct
Cherry Tree Hospital
Woodbank Remembered
Captain's Bridge
Manchester & Stockport Canal Society
Hillgate Mills
Maia Boy's Choir
The Origins of Hazel Grove
The Wesley Pulpit
Admiral Sir George Back
Vernon Mill
Cheadle's Cinema

With much more, including letters and updates from around the Borough.

Flog It !!

2011-11-11T16:42:00.000Z

came to Stockport Town Hall on Friday 11th November. Stockport Heritage Magazine were invited to meet Paul Martin and his team of experts. Our intrepid reporter went along to capture the scene.

FLOG IT !!

Campaign for Church Crossing

2011-10-22T19:16:00.005+01:00

Stockport Heritage Trust has been trying to highlight the need for a crossing in the Market Place for over two years.

In desperation we made our own crossing sign, and a Stockport Express photographer was there to record the event.

Does someone need to be hurt before they will do something?

Stockport Remembered

2011-09-18T16:09:00.013+01:00

'Stockport Remembers' was the first time Woodbank Park has been used to remember the 'Fallen' of Stockport, for a very long time.

The park was given to the people of Stockport following the First World War and has been sadly neglected in recent years but with the remaining memorial gate having been given a face lift and a new tree sculpture to commemorate animals that served in conflicts, it was the perfect time to remember.

A little rain dampened the afternoon but otherwise it was a good day out.

Stockport Festival

2011-09-05T20:28:00.005+01:00

Saturday 3rd Sep. was the first ever Stockport Festival. The weather was kind and people came out to see what was on offer. There was fun for all the family and the town's varying retail areas took part.

The Trust had a stall and provided a 'Roll A Penny' game, which the mayor seemed to enjoy.

Let's hope this is only one of many.

Heritage Open Days at the Trust

2011-08-28T15:41:00.004+01:00

Heritage open day are nearly upon us. This year's free talk at St. Peter's Church, will be Stockport Castle by Kevin Dranfield. It is free and there is an accompanying book for only £2 if you wish to know more.

Come on Thursday 8th Sep. at 2pm and hear about the history of Stockport Castle from pre-historic times to the present day.

Demolition-St. George's Rectory

2011-08-10T23:46:00.002+01:00

St. George's wish to demolish the old rectory. The Trust is official against this as it is a grade II listed building and was listed as part of a site with three buildings including the church and school.

Planning Application to demolish a Listed Building

The planning application consultation period for the demolition of St. George’s former Vicarage, Heaviley a Grade II listed building, will end on 15^th August. The application number 047344 and accompanying documents/surveys etc can be viewed at:

http://planning.stockport.gov.uk/PlanningData/AcolNetCGI.gov?ACTION=UNWRAP&RIPNAME=Root.PgeResultDetail&TheSystemkey=111544

Comments for or against can be left.

Comments can also be sent to the case officer Mark Jordan at: mark.jordan@stockport.gov.uk

Mark Jordan, Planning Services, Stockport MBC, Place Directorate, Stopford House, Piccadilly, Stockport SK1 3XE

The Vicarage has been subject to fire and vandalism and the interior is severely damaged, but the ACIES Structural Condition Report in the Heritage Report Document states that ‘Although there is extensive fire damage to timber elements, the masonry in the building seems to be unaffected.’ Stockport has some good examples of sympathetic re-use of heritage buildings, and it would be sad to see this precedent replaced by approval of the demolition of a listed building.

Supermarket for Marple

2011-08-07T22:17:00.002+01:00

Cheadle & Marple 6th Form College are planning to sell off thier Hibbert Lane Campus to one of the large supermarket chains.

There is a campaign to stop this happening.

If you wish to be a part of this, you can sign an on line petition by going to this web address - www.marple-in-action.org.uk

Alan Burgess

2011-08-04T12:12:00.003+01:00

It is with great sadness that we have to announce the death of our great friend and colleague Alan Burgess.

Alan was one of the Trust's first volunteers to come down to the Heritage Centre and stay.

He found secondhand furniture to fit out the rooms and put on displays around the walls. He often volunteered to sit in the stocks and have wet sponges thrown at him, and would dress in costume and walk around the market are handing out fliers.

Alan was a big asset to the Trust and will be missed.

Chadkirk Festival 2011

2011-08-04T11:35:00.007+01:00

What a weekend !! Who could have guessed after six weeks of bad and mixed weather, we could be so lucky as to get two glorious days for the Chadkirk Festival.

There was more than ever for families to see and do, with street entertainers, basket weaving, exotic dancers, worm charming as well as all the usual stalls and bands.

The Trust was there as usual in all it's glory. We had two stalls, a bran tub and Norman the Knight, who the mayor could not resist shooting an arrow at.

The costumes were varied too, with Georgian, Medieval, Victorian, Puritan and of course the Town Crier.

Thanks to the Friends of Chadkirk and Stockport Council for running this popular event.

Summer 2011 Heritage Magazine out now !!

2011-07-22T16:47:00.004+01:00

The summer Heritage Magazine is in the shops now.

With stories about -
Brinnington
Dan Bank
Sport in Stockport
Oakwood Hall
Red phone boxes
The Unicorn Brewery
The Arden's of Bredbury
Peak Forest Canal
Reddish
Kinder Scout
Woodley
Plaza Cinema
Book reviews and numerous letters.

If your newsagent does not stock it ask him to give us a ring.
01663719129

Inns & Outs of Stockport Taverns

2011-07-18T16:32:00.004+01:00

There is a new book out by Coral Dranfield.

This book is not an index of Stockport Pubs, Coral has selected tales and anecdotes, histories and legends to construct a book that gives a social history woven around the old taverns and inns of Stockport, many of which are no longer there.

It is selling at £6 from Stockport Heritage Centre, St. Mary's Church, the Tourist Information Centre, Staircase House and Waterstones in Merseyway.

2011-07-03T19:42:00.005+01:00

A perfect day, for a perfect day out. Marple Locks Festival picked the best of days for what was the best festival yet.

People flocked to Memorial Park Marple, to see the animals, boats and stalls. There were walks along the canal as well as rides on canal boats. Plenty of stalls provided entertainment, fun and food. Stockport Heritage were out in force and by early afternoon had sold out of 2011 calendars. It looks as if they are going to be in demand this year.

You can get yours from the heritage centre St. Mary's Church, Market Place and they will also be on the heritage stall at Chadkirk on 30th & 31st July.

Thank you to the organisers for a well run event.

Cheadle Walk

2011-06-15T23:21:00.007+01:00

In spite of a little rain towards the end, the Cheadle Walk went swimmingly.

Heather Clark, who sadly passed away a few months ago, was to take us around her Cheadle Walk, using the book she produced for the Heritage Trust.

We decided to do the walk in her honour, using her very popular book.

Twelve people turned out, for what proved to be an enjoyable evening.

Thank you Heather.

SUMMER NEWSLETTER - CORRECTION

2011-06-08T22:11:00.002+01:00

The summer newsletter that went out at the beginning of June 2011 has an incorrect date.

On the back, under the section Other Events, it should read-

Heritage Open Days for 2011 are 8th, 9th, 10th & 11th September, not July.

First Heritage Walk + Dungeon

2011-06-07T10:40:00.001+01:00

A new programme of walks has been put together for 2011.

Next walk Saturday 9th July will be around the 'Old Town', hear about the red light district of Stockport, the history of Castle Yard and look inside the towns dungeon.

The Old Town Walk by Jim Clare on May 14^th - June 18^th – July 9^th – Aug. 13^th – Oct. 8^th, takes around 2 hours.

They are all on Saturdays and a charge of £5 is made, £2.50 for Trust Members.

All start at 12 noon, from the Tourist Information Centre, where you can book your place. (Suitable for wheelchairs). The Trust can also do individual walks for groups of 10 or more at a reduced rate. See website for details.

Graveyard Clean Up

2011-06-06T11:57:00.003+01:00

Nine willing volunteers turned out last Saturday, to clear weeds and nettles from the 'Secret Graveyard' at St. Mary's church in the Market Place.

The main reason for the workday was to enable the graves to be read, prior to a Gaveyard Walk on Sat 11th June, by Jill Trumble.

It takes approx. one and a half hours and costs £5 per person, half price for members of the Trust. Places need to be booked with the Tourist Information Centre, where it will start. 01614744444

Marple Exhibition

2011-06-02T11:32:00.002+01:00

What's On - Heritage in Stockport

2011-05-04T13:19:00.005+01:00

With the demise of the popular 'What's On' guide to Stockport, Stockport Heritage Trust have started a Facebook page for local heritage groups to advertise their events - FREE.

It is an open group so as long as it is heritage related, perhaps a guided walk, talk, or themed event in the Stockport area, please feel free to advertise the details and let everyone know....

Group name

'What's On - Heritage in Stockport'

St. George's Day Market

2011-04-24T23:09:00.004+01:00

What beautiful day for a Market. The sun shone and the flags flew and red roses were sold to raise money for the 'Well Spring'.

Stockport Heritage Trust had more books than ever on their stall and Norman our Knight kept watch on the whole proceedings.

Manchester Tunnel Tour

2011-04-17T22:55:00.006+01:00

Most people were sitting in their gardens on this beautiful sunny Sunday, but not us. Donning warm clothing and stout shoes it was time to delve into the depths of Manchester.

The tunnels we went to see were part of a system of underwater canals intended to link the river Irwell to the Rochdale Canal, but the Duke of Bridgewater did it first and the whole system was a failure.

It was very strange to walk along the floor of a dry canal, with towpaths and bollards.

Thank you Phil Rowbotham for organising this very interesting tour.

SPRING HERITAGE MAGAZINE - OUT NOW

2011-03-23T22:07:00.004Z

The spring 2011 issue of the Stockport Heritage Magazine, is in the shops this week.

Read about -
The Staircase Stitchers
St. Joseph's & Bishop Brown's School
The earliest Dissenter's Chapel
A Ghostly house in Underbank
A famous Stockport Admiral
Growing up in Reddish
Filming in Stockport
Rebel or reformer
What's happening in Marple
Visiting Romiley

Including letters and book reviews.

Get your copy soon.

Heritage Centre Shop

2011-03-18T17:13:00.001Z

Stockport Heritage Centre, in St. Mary's Church, have the biggest array of local history books in the borough. Open market days 11am to 3pm.

Stockport Market - A Walk Through History - £7
Stockport Train Crash - 1948 in the fog - £6
Memories of an Offerton Lad - £8
Stockport Sport - £9.99
Tin Brook - £8.99
The Legacy of Richard de Vernon - £5
Reddish Remembered - £4
Reddish Newtown - £6.50
Cheadle - £8
Stockport a History & Guide - £14.99
Marple Through Time - £12.99
70's Teenager - £7.99
Rivers under Your Feet - £5
Shadows - £9.95
Derbyshire Cavemen - £14.99
These are not all, we also have 17 Heritage Walks around the Borough £2 each

Old Pictures of Stockport

2011-03-11T20:57:00.005Z

Stockport is fortunate enough to have many old black and white photographs taken of its development over 130 years and many of them were made into postcards.

Stockport Heritage Centre has a huge collection of these photographs as well as class pictures from many of its schools, dating back to 1932.

Have we got the road where you grew up?

Come and have a look through our books, we are based in St. Mary's Church, Market Place and open Tuesday, Friday and Saturday 11am - 3 pm.

Willow Grove Cemetery

2011-03-11T20:41:00.003Z

The Friends of Stockport Cemeteries, is a very active group, who have been working hard on Willow Grove Cemetery in Reddish to make it more accessible to the public.

With the aid of grants and volunteers, they have laid paths, planed flower beds, put gravestones back up and produced two walks leaflets.

click the image to enlarge

Memories of an Offerton lad

2011-03-05T12:47:00.003Z

This book will have you splitting your sides.

Jim Clare was brought up in a family of eight children, around Offerton, Hall Street and Newbridge Lane. He went to St. Mary's State School and has spent many years collection class pictures from that school.

The book is full of anecdotes and funny stories, as is Jim himself, and anyone knowing him will understand how this book could not fail to be a big hit.

It is selling in the Heritage Centre and the Tourist Information Centre, in the Market Place, for £8.

Macclesfield trip

2011-02-19T17:30:00.006Z

First trip of the new year was to visit St. Micheal's Church in Macclesfield, where an amazing transformation has taken place in the last few years.

With the help of a steel and glass frame three internal rooms have been built one on top of the other.

The effect is stunning and in no way compromises the church and it's space.

Could this be done at St. Mary's? Thank you Jim Clare for organising the trip.

Hydro Power at Otterspool

2011-02-11T21:07:00.005Z

A presentation was given on Saturday 5th February at the Hare & Hounds pub, showing the proposal for producing hydro-electricity by making use of the weir at Otterspool Bridge on Dooley Lane.

In spite of the weather, there was a good turn out, including Councilor's Ben and Shan Alexander and Andrew Stunnell, MP for Stockport South.

Shares in this project are being sold at £1 each, with a minimum of 250.

Anyone wishing more information contact Ben Alexander.

New Books

2011-02-11T19:58:00.002Z

There are four new books on our shelves,

Water Under the Bridge - the story of Lancashire Bridge by Daphne Breen

Stockport Castle - a history of a 'defensive out crop' for 2,000 years - by Kevin Dranfield

A History Walk Around Brinnington - by Phil Rowbotham

A History Walk from Cheadle Heath to Mersey Square - by Pat Taylor

All are £2 and can be bought from the Stockport Heritage Centre St. Mary's Church, Market Place.

Pool Closure Campaign

2011-02-11T19:49:00.004Z

Norris Bank Swimming Club are fighting to save their poll during this time of cuts.

A petition with 10,000 signatures has been collected to fight the closure of the Stockport School swimming pool.

Anyone wishing to help this group with their campaign can do so through their web site -

www.nbswim-club.co.uk

Dan Bank- Last Phase

2011-01-13T16:54:00.009Z

The last phase of the Dan Bank work is about to be carried out.

click on image to enlarge

REDDISH VALE TREE WORK

2011-01-13T16:33:00.002Z

During Jan and Feb. 2011, Stockport Council will be carrying out woodland management work in Reddish Vale Country Park.

The work, which includes felling trees and thinning, is necessary to keep the woodland safe and also promote a better habitat for wildlife. At certain times it may be necessary for footpaths to be temporarily closed for safety reasons while work is carried out.

Due to slope stabilization work on the adjoining bank, Tiviot Dale car park on Tiviot Way will be closed to enable the work to be carried out safely.
As part of the improvements, it will be necessary to fell the existing trees on the bank. Following the work, the bank will be replanted with native tree species including Oak, Hazel, Holly, Rowan, Birch and Alder.

2011-01-10T12:15:00.000Z

The Stockport Heritage Trust calendar for 2011 is now reduced to £5 not £6

With 13 stunning pictures of Stockport, as well as facts about its past, it is still a good buy
with a free envelope for posting. They can be bought from St. Mary's Church Heritage Centre in the Market Place or by ringing 01614274006.

Heritage Magazine - fault

2010-11-28T23:40:00.001Z

Anyone finding themselves with a Heritage Magazine that has a page missing, please return to the Editor, Steve Cliffe, and he will replace it for you.

Spirit of Christmas

2010-11-27T22:19:00.006Z

Another stall, another cold day.
Mr. Pickwick was out in person to promote his Heritage Emporium, at the Spirit of Christmas on Sat 27th Nov. The cold weather did not deter visitors from all over the region, and Heritage Calendars were selling like 'hot cakes', so was the mulled wine.
If you have not yet got your calender for 2011, the Heritage Centre and Tourist Information Centre still have a few left.

Heritage Magazine Winter 2010

2010-11-16T22:34:00.002Z

The latest Heritage Magazine will be in the shops this week with more interesting stories of Stockport.

From manor to metropolis
Market history exhibition
Evacuees return to Stockport
Cheadle Green archaeological dig
Come to the fair
Forgotten tracks
Dressing up the bride
Green and pleasant Roman Lakes
Stockport's miracle
The ruined chapel
Cycling up the Clarion
Greave Fold

and more ...................

GET YOUR COPY NOW !

Heaton Mersey

2010-11-16T22:28:00.000Z

Heaton Mersey Christmas Carols in the Park, Lantern Parade and Lights Switch-on Tuesday 30^th November 2010

Timetable:

4.30 illuminated area for performance to be ready in Heaton Mersey park

4.30 Rotary Christmas Float to arrive via Richmond Road in the Park and to collect donations for charity as people arrive at the Park

4.45 children taking part in the event to arrive with their teachers in the Park

5.00 schools to perform

5.30 All to leave the park via the pathway to the lower level and the Vale close entrance, to walk up vale close and to the left of the Crown pub, onto Didsbury Road and to the Car Park, carrying lanterns and singing

5.30 Rotary Christmas Float to move to the Car Park in front of the Crown

5.45 Lights switch on at the Christmas tree by the youngest pupil from Didsbury Road School

5.55 all to The Crown Pub where Father Christmas will give out drinks and buns to the children and adults will be asked to make donations to the Rotary collection.

Mulled wine and other drinks will be available to purchase for the adults.

BBC's 'Turn Back Time' to Visit Stockport

2010-11-08T21:19:00.007Z

The BBC's 'Turn Back Time' program, which follows a group of traders trying to manage life as shopkeepers at various points in time, will visit Stockport Market on Friday 12th November - Sunday 14th November.

Details taken from the BBC website:

Event: Turn Back Time Pop-Up Shop, Stockport. Open 10am - 5pm, 12th - 14th Nov.
As well as taking you back in time through the 1930s grocer's shop, there will be advice on researching your own high street history, local artefacts to get 'hands on' with, and a chance for your old photos of the area to become part of a high street memory line.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/handsonhistory/map-explanation.s

To compliment the 1930's theme, the 'dungeon' window (top of Mealhouse Brow) has been converted into a 1930's Sewing Machine Shop Window, for a very limited time only.

St. Wilfrid's Fair

2010-10-25T16:31:00.014+01:00

What an amazing weekend, Stockport has not seen the like for many a year.

The St. Wilfrid's medieval fair was put on to celebrate 750 years of a market charter and what a fair it was. Words cannot describe the atmosphere created by medieval cooking, music, apothecaries, basket weaving, wattle and daub, a torture master and even a dragon.

The grand finale was a most spectacular fire show and fireworks to music.

The crowds flocked in their thousands and the market buzzed as it has not done for a very long time.

Thank you Stockport for a fair that will be long remembered.

'Market in Bloom' Flower Festival

2010-10-21T23:46:00.005+01:00

The 'MARKET IN BLOOM' Flower Festival at St Mary's Parish Church, Stockport Market Place, officially opened tonight (Thursday) and has proved it's worth waiting for!

Beautiful and imaginative floral displays reflect the variety of stalls on the Market, whilst emphasising the focal areas of the church. The 'River of Roses' also provides visitors a chance to remember those who are no longer with us.

New Market Book

2010-10-17T17:29:00.005+01:00

A new book is being launched this week by Stockport Heritage Trust.

It is the history of 750 years of Stockport Market and the surrounding area. It tells of the people, buildings and customs in a most well researched and easy to read way by Maureen Fahey, one of our members.

Very good value at £7 , it is A4 size, with 64 pages and 60 photographs, illustrations and maps.

You can get it from St. Mary's Heritage Centre on any Market Day 11am - 3pm, or Sat. Oct. 23rd we will be selling it in the market on our St. Wilfrid's Fair medieval stall.

Mushroom Hunt 2010

2010-10-09T23:31:00.008+01:00

This year's mushroom hunt was on Wed. 13th October at Etherow Country Park.

After meeting for coffee the intrepid explorers set off through the wilds of Etherow Park, armed only with cameras and a small pocket sized guide on wild fungi.

The sun shone and the wind was light. There was much to see and photograph, but sadly no one had told the mushrooms we were coming, or had they?

Still a good day was had by all, and many thanks to Steve Cliffe for leading the expedition.

Stockport Train Crash

2010-09-21T20:40:00.002+01:00

This A4 book covers a catalogue of human errors leading up to Stockport's only fatal rail disaster, in thick fog, on the viaduct, in 1948.

It includes an eye witness account, from a passenger who still remembers that fateful night.

It can be bought from the St. Mary's Heritage Centre, open on market days, for £6.

Heaton Moor Historical Society

2010-09-15T19:19:00.003+01:00

The next Heaton Moor Historical Society talk at the Plough pub on Heaton Moor Road is Thursday the 18th November starting at 7.30 p.m.

Our guest speaker will be Frank Galvin who is an SMBC Team Manager responsible for museums and collections.

Frank's talk will be about 'Stockport's Museums and Collections, one service with eight sites to explore".

Well worth a visit.

Market 750

2010-09-06T22:03:00.006+01:00

6th Sep 1260 was the date of Stockport's Market Charter and Saturday's celebrations took the form of the Market through time.

Dan Bank Finished

2010-09-06T20:54:00.004+01:00

Dan Bank in Marple is finished on time, and with the least possible disruption to residents.

And thanks mainly to Ray Peston our Offerton Historian the very old Oldknow boundary stones have been saved and put back as a feature of the roadside.

I must congratulate the contractors on this excellent piece of work.

Blue Plaque for County

2010-08-11T23:09:00.006+01:00

At last the Stockport County Blue Plaque is in it's rightful place and was unveiled, by the Chairman Alwyn Thompson, last evening.

It is four years since the public voted it the most popular venue for a new Blue Plaque.

Court Leet Sits Again

2010-08-11T23:01:00.005+01:00

After an absence or over 150 years the Market Place once more played host to a Court Leet. A group of Trust members dressed in costume to re-enact the old Court Leet Trials.

Volunteers found themselves sent to the Dungeon, sat in the Stocks or threatened with the Scold's Blank.

All was done in a lighthearted manner and the audience joined in with gusto.

Classic Cars in the Market Place

2010-08-03T19:31:00.009+01:00

For the first time ever, a classic car show was held in Stockport's Market Place on Sun 1st Aug.

60 old cars graced the historic Market area and a steady flow of people came to view them.

Goody bags were given to exhibitors, containing Stockport rock, souvenirs and free tickets to go around Staircase House with a guide book.

The organ music gave an appropriate atmosphere to the whole event and the consensus was, at the end of the day, that it should become an annual event.

2010 Chadkirk Festival

2010-08-02T14:34:00.010+01:00

Chadkirk Festival was held again this year on the last full weekend in July.

With Roman soldiers, Egyptian dancers, A brass band, the Liberty Belle singers and lots of other entertainments.

Plenty of people came throughout the two days and all seemed to enjoy themselves.

There was a display of birds of prey and a 'worm charming' competition.

The Trust was out in force with 'Norman the Knight' who was shot and killed many times throughout the weekend. There was also a bran tub for the kids, and for the parents, heritage books and tea towels produced by Trust members.

If you missed it this year, put it in your diary for next.

Romiley Walk

2010-07-23T14:43:00.008+01:00

John Bardsley took a group on a very pleasant walk around Romiley and Greave on Wed. evening.

They were shown many interesting buildings, told of local celebrities and viewed old registers and log books from the 1914 Romiley Junior School.

John's vast knowledge of the area and it's history made for an extremely interesting and informative walk. Thank you john.

Summer 2010 Magazine Out Now

2010-07-18T09:50:00.003+01:00

The Summer issue of Stockport Heritage Magazine is in the shops this week and it's as good as ever.

The Royal Air Force in Stockport
The Pied Piper of Heaton Mersey
A Tribute to Woodford
750 years of Stockport Market
Memories of Abney Hall
Stockport Carnival
Bramall Park investigations.

I'm not giving it all away, you will have to buy the book, and but one for a friend as well.

Willow Grove Cemetery

2010-07-13T10:15:00.001+01:00

Friends of Stockport Cemeteries

Invite Stockport Heritage Trust members to a

Celebration at Willow Grove Cemetery Reddish

Sunday 29th August 2010

from 1pm until 4pm

The celebration is to officially open the new Heritage and Tree

Trail and acknowledge the partnership working with Stockport Council.

Please come along and join in our celebration.

Bishop Brown's Industrial School

2010-07-12T14:06:00.006+01:00

Bishop Brown's Industrial School on High Street is part of a site being developed, by Johnnie Johnson Housing, into housing units similar to those in the old Citadel building. The shell of the old school is to be kept intact and many architectural features incorporated into the re-development.

It is planned to add the former Reform Club to the site also, this was recently used as Peaches Night Club and is in a very derelict condition at present.

Part of the site includes the Nonconformist graveyard which has been given an archeological investigation, revealing gravestones at different levels as well as many empty vaults. It is thought that the bodies were removed when the graveyard went out of use.

Another find is a possible medieval pit, showing habitation early on in this area.

Heritage Centre - Only Open Saturdays for 2 weeks!

2010-07-02T19:50:00.010+01:00

Emergency repair work to the chancel arch in St. Mary's Church will begin next week - Monday 5th July.

As a consequence, due to severely limited access, the Heritage Centre will be closed throughout

the week for at least the next fortnight.

The Centre WILL BE OPEN ON SATURDAYS - 10TH & 17TH JULY as usual 11am - 3.30pm.

The advertised walk on the 10th July, and talk in St. Mary's on 17th July

WILL BE UNAFFECTED,

and continue as planned. The dungeon will also be open as planned on Saturday 10th.

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause, but know that you will be as pleased as we are that the essential restoration work is finally taking place, ensuring St. Mary's is safe and preserved for future generations.

Further updates will be posted as soon as we know what's going on...

Heritage Walk

2010-06-15T23:34:00.000+01:00

The Heritage Walk around St. Mary's graveyard
with Jill Trumble was a great success.

People were amazed at the stories she had to tell about the people of Stockport.

Who they were, how they lived and why the stones have been placed where we see them today.

The next chance to take this walk will be during the Heritage Open Day weekend Thur. 9th to Sun. 12th September.

Eric Longson

2010-06-08T20:33:00.004+01:00

It is with great sadness that we have to announce the death of our much loved and respected friend and colleague Eric Longson.

Our thoughts are with Sheila and the family.

Visit Stockport !

2010-06-04T23:18:00.002+01:00

The Council has just updated its Visit Stockport website.

http://www.visit-stockport.com/stockport_750_anniversary.asp

To find our what is going on in Stockport for the 750 celebrations, click on the link.

Reddish Vale

2010-05-24T13:40:00.007+01:00

Many of our members have been showing concern about what is going on in Reddish Vale.

Many areas have been deforested and this is causing alarm. The site close to the Portwood round about is a private site, and has been given permission to build industrial units. Once the work is done, the slope and access road will be landscaped to hide it from view and hopefully in a few years the area will once again look green and lush.

Many trees inside Reddish Vale have also had to be felled, this is due to a lack of tree management in the past, particularly along pathways. It should make the Vale a more pleasant place to visit, ie less mud.

Any rumors that are going about concerning the ponds may be misleading. The Council are looking for an Angling club to license the ponds, this is not the same as leasing, there will be no change of ownership.

The Heritage Trust is now a Stakeholder in Reddish Vale, and will be keeping in touch with any decisions concerning its administration.

Tracing the Water Tunnels of Stockport

2010-05-15T22:57:00.007+01:00

Sunday's walk, tracing the 'History of Water Power' in Stockport, was a great success.

In spite of the heat of the day, 14 intrepid hikers came armed with boots, hats and water bottles.

Starting in Castle Yard and finishing at Woodbank Hall took 4 hours with a stop for refreshments at the Vernon Park Cafe, and there was plenty to see and talk about along the way.

Thank you to Kevin Dranfield for another good walk looking at the history of Stockport.

Aqueduct Blue Plaque

2010-04-24T19:18:00.005+01:00

The last of the Council's Millennium plaques went up today.

It has only taken 10 year to get it positioned on the Aqueduct but better late than never.

Hats Through Time

2010-04-05T10:58:00.009+01:00

The Country's only Hat Works Museum is 10 years old this spring, and to help them celebrate this anniversary Stockport Heritage Trust were in the Covered Market last Saturday with a selection of hats representing different periods of history.

Families were encouraged to 'try a hat' and information was to hand about the history of hatting in Stockport

They were joined by other Easter favourites.

Staircase Stitchers Work on Display

2010-03-24T13:55:00.009Z

Beautiful Embroidery Now on Show to the Public!

After four years of stitching, the crewel work bed hangings, bedcover and monochrome pillow cases are finally gracing the replica 17th century bed (donated by the Trust) in Staircase House.

The Mayor of Stoockport cut a ribbon across the bed chamber doorway, allowing the public to finally view the intricate work in situ.

The hangings and bedding will remain in place for you to view at any time.

The stitchers are diligently continuing with their work to produce 4 more hangings for the bed, and other beautiful items to add that 'lived-in' feel to Staircase House.

Heritage Magazine Spring 2010

2010-03-21T10:48:00.004Z

Issue 75 of the Stockport Heritage Magazine will be in the shops this week. Don't miss it !!

It contains stories of : -

Protected buildings in Stockport
The great winter of 1947
Cheadle Royal's William Morris windows come home.
Bed hangings for Staircase House
Stockport Saving's Bank
The origins of Hatting in Stockport
Stockport Collage vision for the future
Christopher Isherwood, Marple novelist
A ramble around Woodbank with Jim Clare
Childhood in Reddish
History of Marple Lakes
Heroes of Reddish Newtown and plenty of interesting letters.

If there is a newsagent near you that does not sell the magazine, please let us know.

Dan Bank Phase 3

2010-03-18T21:48:00.002Z

Click on the image to enlarge.

Gateway Markers Rejected

2010-03-05T15:57:00.000Z

The Area Committee meeting on Thursday 4th March rejected all six applications for Gateway Markers, the sixth being an arch on Bridge Street, on the grounds that they were not appropriate for a conservation area. The Trust is now hoping to be included in future consultations to get archways and markers that will enhance the old town area, rather than clash with it.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Stockport Heritage Trust is opposed to the plans to put 5, six metre high, stainless steel towers on the roads leading into the historic Market Place and Underbanks.

The Trust does not consider these markers to be an appropriate material for the old town Conservation Area.

They are far too large, shiny, modern and do not indicate that they are welcoming you into the old part of Stockport.

In fact completely unsuitable for the job they were designed for.

Abney Hall - update

2010-01-18T13:59:00.003Z

Click image to enlarge.

Stockport Planning Awards

2010-01-17T16:15:00.003Z

Stockport Heritage Trust was proud to have a part in the Judging of these awards.

Each award given was hard won and much deserved.

Click on image to enlarge

Plaza Cafe open

2010-01-08T19:05:00.005Z

The Plaza is open and so is its 1930's Art Deco Cafe.

10am to 4 pm they serve in the most elegant surroundings.

Give it a try.

Super Clinic Shaw Heath

2009-12-30T17:08:00.004Z

Anyone seeing the article in this week's Stockport Express about a new NHS clinic on the St. Thomas Hospital site, might be a little confused as to how this fits in with the old Workhouse.

The old St. Thomas Hospital site is now divided by a continuation of Royal George St. which separates the site owned by Stockport College, on the right, containing the beautifully restored workhouse buildings, from the site on the left, which is still owned by the Health Authority, who have been planning to redeveloped this site for some time.

Dan Bank update

2009-12-30T16:49:00.003Z

(click on picture to enlarge image)

The Oldknow stones, dating back to the building of his turnpike around 1800.

All credit for the identification and preservation of these stones must go to Ray Preston, one of our Trust members.

Stockport Heitage Magazine Winter 2009

2009-12-05T22:06:00.000Z

The latest Magazine will be in the shops for December.

It contains stories about -

A Reddish swimming champion.
Railways of Heaton Mersey
The early day of sport in Stockport
Growing up in Portwood
Buildings at risk
Prehistoric Mellor
100 years of Guiding in Cheadle
Poynton coal pits
Marple's Mill of Misery

and much, much more.

Heritage Magazine Index

2009-12-05T20:00:00.000Z

At last the magazine has an index that includes all issues from 1 - 74
It is in CD Rom format and very easy to use.

If you are looking for information about an area of Stockport or interested in Stopfordian's memories of growing up with two wars and wish to find an article in the back copies, or maybe remember seeing a picture in one of the magazines and cannot find it, this Index is the answer.

It cost £4 from the Heritage Centre in St. Mary's Church in the Market Place or can be ordered from Coral Dranfield at coralandkevin@hotmail.com with 95p P & P added.

Victorian Market 2009

2009-12-02T16:22:00.006Z

The Victorian Market was a great success this year. The Council pulled out all the stops to make it a fun filled day, with free entertainments, and warming mulled wine and mince pies. The Heritage Trust turned out in numbers and in costume to add to the Victorian atmosphere of the day. Our 'Roll a Penny' and 'Catch the Rat' games, gave much amusement and our Heritage stall did a roaring trade in Stockport Calendars as well as souvenirs and Christmas presents.

Fire in Hopes Carr

2009-11-27T19:19:00.006Z

Another piece of Stockport's Heritage was destroyed today by fire.

An important mill, that had recently been identified as of possible World Heritage Status, was destroyed by fire in less that 24 hours.

Stockport cannot afford to lose such buildings as these, and there are many more in the Borough still at risk.

What is happening at Brinksway?

2009-11-26T19:54:00.002Z

Anyone passing by the Brinksway Caves may have noticed scaffolding has been erected in front of some of the caves, while repairs to the road are carried out.

The Heritage Trust was asked if these caves have ever been surveyed and we were able to ask a man who knew the answers.

The caves have been surveyed and a digital 3D image taken.

The road above is in need of better foundations and three small caves will have to be filled to support it better. These are away from the main row of seven caves, as shown on the picture, which, we are assured, are quite safe.

Disagreements over Woodbank Park

2009-11-18T16:23:00.007Z

There is a proposed new car park, to serve Woodbank and Vernon Parks. It is to be positioned off Turncroft Lane and as part of the improvements the old stone gateway shall get a makeover and the glacial boulder be set in a small garden feature. The park is over 560,000 sq. mtrs. and the area proposed for the car park will be 0.23 % of that.

It will be to the left of the present entrance in an area that is not used because of poor drainage, and is designed to take the parking off Turncroft Lane.

The Friends of Woodbank are in favour of the car park, but a small group of locals are trying to prevent it.

The Park was given to the people of Stockport in the 1920's but the Council added to it considerably when they bought Woodbank Farm.

The Trust has voted to support the plans on the grounds that more access is needed to both parks for elderly, infirm and families with buggies. Also Woodbank Hall is a building at risk and in danger of deterioration and decay and the Trust is concerned for its future.

The Friends are hoping that the car park will mean less traffic inside the Park as cars are a nuisance up and down the driveway. They say there is no truth is the rumour that coaches will be parked there.

This Saturday is the last chance to put forward your comments to the plans either way..

Gorton Monastery

2009-10-28T21:15:00.005Z

Fifteen Trust members turned up today, for a guided tour of Gorton Monastery, and what a place it is.

Built in the 1860's as a statement to the people of Manchester, that the Catholic Church was back in this country, after hundreds of years of oppression and persecution.

It's Architect, Edward Pugin, used the sun's rays in an amazing way to pick out features of the church at different times of the day and year.

Not all the architectural features are yet back in place as many were sold or destroyed during years of decay, but what has been done to restore and reuse the building is just miraculous.

1940's Market - 70 years on.

2009-10-25T21:10:00.004Z

It is 70 years since the 'Outbreak of War' and the opening of Stockport's Air Raid Shelters.

Saturday 24th October was the day chosen to commemorate this event with activities down the Air Raid Shelters as well as in the Market Place.

Many people turned out to join in the day and the Trust's stall full of 1940's items, brought back memories for many as well as giving others the chance to try army dress and old fashions.

The G.I presence gave the whole event atmosphere and their expertise with the 'Jitterbug' got everyone's feet tapping.

Conservation & Design Awards

2009-10-09T20:11:00.009+01:00

Last week a member of the Trust, Tony Marsh, was one of eight judges for Stockport's Conservation and Design Awards. They viewed fifteen entries, which varied from the refurbished Red Bull on Hillgate, to a Yoga studio in Heaton Moor, from an Iron Bridge in Marple to a new Academy in Cheadle Heath.

After discussing each building's merits at length their comments were passed to the Council's representatives and the results and award presentation will be held in November for the successful buildings.

Mushroom Hunt

2009-09-28T16:54:00.009+01:00

In spite of the weather, and a poor turn out, the 'Mushroom Hunt' was a great success.

With a 2 hour walk through the Goyt Valley ending at the Shady Oak for lunch, it was easy to forget why we were there.

Only armed with cameras and a mushroom book, we hunted and walked and hunted some more, turning up some beautiful specimens.

Thank you Steve Cliffe for suggesting a route for us.

Heritage Open Days 2009

2009-09-14T14:30:00.007+01:00

This year's Heritage Open Days were blessed with the best possible weather for the time of year, which added to what was a full menu of walks, talks and a welcome to all who had never visited the Heritage Centre before.

A new walk around St. Mary's graveyard, by Jill Trumble, went down very well and could have been filled three time over.

A big thank you to everyone who put in the work to make this an enjoyable four days.

Heritage Centre's 10th Birthday

2009-09-09T11:47:00.012+01:00

Stockport Heritage Trust celebrated it's 10th birthday on Sat 5th September with an unveiling ceremony. Ann Coffey, Member of Parliament for Stockport, officially presented St. Mary's Church with a new noticeboard, paid for by the Trust to commemorate their ten year partnership.

The celebrations continued inside the church where she also opened the new 1939 exhibition "The Outbreak of War".

The evening celebrations were held in St. Andrew's Church Hall were Iain Maclean and Roger Scoones both spoke briefly about how the Heritage Centre came about and what it has meant to both organizations, working together.

To view Iain's speech click on the link below.
Iain's speech

New Marple Book

2009-07-29T21:34:00.003+01:00

There is a new Marple Book out now.

It contains over 90 old photographs and postcards of Marple and District, which includes Chadkirk, Marple Bridge, Mellor, Compstall, Hawk Green, Strines, High Lane and the Roman Lakes.

Each old picture has a corresponding modern photograph to accompany it.

This book will be a record for the future. Compare the scenes of yesteryear with those of today, and have a keepsake record of the area in 2009.

It can be obtained for £12.99 from-
Stockport Heritage Centre, St. Mary's church, the Market Place.

stockportheritagemagazine.co.uk

or direct from the authors, Coral Dranfield 01614274006, Steve Cliffe 01663719129

2009 Chadkirk Festivel

2009-07-29T16:36:00.011+01:00

The weather could not stop the annual Chadkirk Festival, although on the Sunday it did try.

Romans and Eastern Dancers added to the fun and the usual stalls and entertainments.

The Trust were there with 'Norman the Knight', who, although being shot many times by the children, was still standing at the end of the weekend.

Heritage Destroyed

2009-07-20T22:15:00.005+01:00

More of Marple's heritage was destroyed this week, when a WWII command post was flattened by contractors preparing a work site ready for next years repair of Dan Bank.

The work site will probably be there for 12 - 18 months. The command post has been there for 60 years.

An unusual construction, with two rooms each with a metal arched roof.

The arched riveted steel roofs were the last thing to be seen of what was probably a unique relic in the borough.

Summer /09 Magazine Out Now

2009-07-19T17:47:00.002+01:00

The Summer issue of the Stockport & District Heritage Magazine, is on the shelves now and just as good as ever.

There are stories about -
Happy school days.
Pubs with character.
Life of a photographer on the Stockport Advertiser.
Daw Bank's early 'House of Industry'.
A ramble around Reddish.
The Monkey Run.
Underbank Hall.
Old Cottage of Brinnington.
When a hayloft became a school.
St Philip's Cheadle.
Arden Hall.
As well as book reviews and many letters from readers.

Get your copy from local newsagents, Stockport Heritage Centre in St. Mary's Church, Market Place, or direct from the Editor. www.stockportheritagemagazine.co.uk

Marple Lock's Festival

2009-06-29T10:10:00.005+01:00

A little rain was not enough to stop the people of Marple from turning out for the 2009 bi-annual Locks Festival.

Plenty of fun, food and fine weather turned the day into a great success.

The Trust was present as usual and were greeted by many friends.

Thank you to the team lead by Alison and Malcolm Allcard for a very well organised event.

Edwardian Garden Party

2009-06-16T22:18:00.007+01:00

More summer fun, when members of the Trust gathered together on Sunday afternoon, for an Edwardian style garden party.

Croquet on the lawn for the sedate set.

Connect Four extended the brains of the thoughtful and Boules gave an excuse for the more pedantic among us to quibble over the score.

Good food and good company made for a pleasant day.

Canal Trip

2009-05-20T19:32:00.009+01:00

Eighteen brave Heritage Trust members set out on Wed 20th May, to conquer the Ashton to Marple canal, with the aid of two comfortable barges.

After much sunbathing, eating, drinking and considerable laughter, they arrived safely back at base, with no undue signs of fatigue.

The trip had been book up in the first week and a cry for more went up from the heroes after a very enjoyable day.

Thank you to Kevin Dranfield for organising the outing, and how about doing it again next year?

Old Town Walk

2009-05-17T14:16:00.002+01:00

June 13th Jim Clare will be taking a Blue Badge guided walk around Stockport's Old Town.

This is £5 per person, half price for members if you produce a current membership card on the day.

Leaving the Tourist Information Centre at 12 noon, places need to be reserved through them in advance.

Heaton Moor Historical Society

2009-05-10T22:38:00.002+01:00

Heaton Moor Historical Society

FUTURE EVENTS

On Wednesday the 10th June we are having an evening walk around part of the Heaton Moor Conservation Area.

We'll meet at the Plough as usual at 7 pm. This will be a wheelchair-friendly flat circular 1½ mile stroll which will take about an hour.

On Wednesday 22nd July our guest speaker will be Jim Clare, the chairman of the Stockport Heritage Trust. His illustrated talk will be on St. Mary's Parish Church in the Marketplace. He will also tell us about the legacy of the Rector Richard de Vernon, who built part of the existing sand stone church, the chancel and the oratory, between 1306 and 1334.

Best wishes,
Phil....
07752 368308

Avro Heritage Trip

2009-04-23T20:02:00.006+01:00

The Heritage Trust took a day off to visit the Avro Heritage Centre at Woodford.
12 members turned up, including some new faces.

After a very nice lunch in their canteen, overlooking the airfield, we were taken through the hanger, where Nimrod's were being made.

The Heritage Centre is a credit to the team that have put it together and open it to organised groups. Our guide was very knowledgeable and most entertaining. All in all a great day out.

Thanks to Phil Rowbotham for organising it.

Dan Bank - Phase 2

2009-04-19T23:05:00.002+01:00

click on picture to enlarge.

Easterfeast

2009-04-12T22:00:00.004+01:00

Easter Saturday was a huge success for both the Market and the Trust.

Many activities around the town attracted large numbers of people to Stockport and the Heritage Trust, as part of the attractions, put on a display of 'Crime & Punishment' in the Old Dungeon on Mealhouse Brow.

A good turn out of Members, many in costume added to the enjoyment and atmosphere of the day.