COLLEEN Clegg is sitting on the settee in Bohemia Cottages, the home she’s lived in almost all her life.
“There are a lot of memories here,” she says gesturing around the timber-framed room.
“I can’t believe it’s been 60 years. Your life just flashes in front of you.”
And it’s not just Mrs Clegg’s memories. If the walls of cottages could talk they’d have some story to tell.
Built-in 1721, they’re the oldest houses in Stalybridge and sit at the foot of Cocker Hill, the town’s first street.
Stephanie Mellor and her husband Alan moved into a former weaver’s cottage on Cocker Hill after getting married in 1997. Intrigued by her new 18th Century home she began researching its history.
Pretty soon she’d uncovered all manner of fascinating stories. And that led to her setting up a blog exploring Cocker Hill’s colourful past.
“I got interested in local history once we moved in,” she said. “I simply wanted to know how old the house was – I naively just walked into the local studies library to ask – they gave me tips on where to start.
This story is from the February 11, 2024 edition of MEN on Sunday.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the February 11, 2024 edition of MEN on Sunday.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Rodri's importance to Blues is laid bare
IF there is an argument for how good a player Rodri is then you need look no further than City right now.
City players walking a fine line over yellow cards
CITY are potentially just two matches away from losing a quartet of players during the hectic festive season.
Home comforts offer long-term hope to Super League Salford
SALFORD Red Devils have finally received the news they were waiting for, with Salford council confirming the acquisition of the club's stadium.
Just the ticket for a festive treat, despite nearly choking on a dry stuffing ball
THEY say the best things in life are worth waiting for.
A cut above the rest
A mobile barber from Bolton has been shortlisted as one of the top 100 small businesses in the country. Jignesh Madhavji, owner of Jiggi mobile barbershop, was shortlisted among 99 other businesses and was celebrated during an event at the House of Lords.
Man sheds NINE STONE after theme park shame
Machine operator has made a big transformation after he used to consume 4,000 calories a day
Last days of Owens Park
FOR many, the tower referred to as Owens Park will have been their first home in Manchester.
Insurance worker in data breach
A CAR insurance worker abused his position to divulge hundreds of customer private details to 'claims farmers! Rizwan Manjra, 44, was employed by Markerstudy Insurance Services Limited (MISL), based in the Arndale Centre in Manchester city centre, leading a team that processed accident claims.
Has the crackdown on crime gone too far?
Crime reporter John Scheerhout looks at GMP's recent use of dispersal orders in the region
The fight to bring hero soldier Dan's case before courts
Efforts continue to locate man named as a suspect in the investigation into unlawful killing of paratrooper.
