Winsford Ladies Midweek club by Jean Begg

The guest speakers for the recent meeting of Winsford Ladies Midweek club were Carole Walker from Winsford U3A history society aided by Karen from Chester Civil Society with their illustrated talk on the listed building of Winsford.

Karen categorised the types of listed buildings according to English Heritage. Those prior to 1700 that have most of their original fabric are usually Grade 1 listed. Those after 1840 are graded more for their individuality or links to particular people or events. Various monuments in the Winsford area are also listed including some of the statues and interestingly some canal locks.

Not surprisingly Vale Royal Abbey, St Chad's Church, St John’s Church and their meeting place The United Reformed Church are all listed. Also is what’s known locally as the lock-up or Over Cross outside St John’s School on Delamere Street and the Nun’s Grave at Vale Royal which now only consists of the plinth.

The statue in the shopping centre dedicated to those who fell in the Boar War is particularly important as there are very few monuments in Britain dedicated to the Boar War.

For members who have lived all their lives in Winsford the presentation was of particular interest and stimulated a lot of conversation and memories of old Winsford and of some of the buildings that have been demolished.

Carole and Karen urged members to get in touch with them if anyone has photographs or stories of Winsford’s past heritage. The History Society are trying to put together a comprehensive account of the buildings and the life of the town so if anyone out there has information please pass it to them as it will be much appreciated.

Mr Wragg will be telling members about the Stone Walls of Derbyshire at the next meeting. Please call 01606 592724 or 01606 594970 for details.