Grove Mill, Canal Mill and Botany Bay - Tapa blanda

This is a unique history of two of the most important mills in the Chorley area. With more than 180 photographs, maps and plans, it is a must for historians and visitors alike. Containing the full histories of the Smethursts, who brought the railway and Methodism to Chorley; the Widdows, who helped to found the Chorley Agricultural Society; and the Smalleys, captured in one of this book's many archive photographs posing outside the church in 1905, it celebrates the area's industrial heritage. More than this, though, it celebrates life in the area in days gone by, and the character and indomitable spirit of the mill workers and staff. Full of intriguing facts - including the strange history of the ghosts of Bygone Times - this beautifully illustrated little book will delight all who know the area.

Arthur Howell has worked for both Canal Mill, Botany Bay and Grove Mill, Eccleston over the years. Both are now retail outlets known as Bygone Times. This project is the result of years of research. He researched the history of each of the sites for the company's websites (www.botanybay.co.uk and www.bygonetimes.co.uk). Collectively, Bygone Times at the two sites are visited by thousands of visitors a year.