View From The Chair

It seems to be 'all change' doesn't it? For several years we have met at Ragland Road and now that venue is no longer available.

So for our May and June meetings we went further afield, to the Community Hall at St. Martin's Church. Far afield, did I say? Not really, as Ashton-on-Mersey is older than Sale itself. Indeed, St. Martin's celebrated its 700th anniversary in 2003, while the other churches in Sale followed many years later.

There are many interesting landmarks in Ashton. There is the Church which has a fascinating lychgate, the Brooks' Institute, now used for commercial purposes, but looking very smart, the former school with the clock tower attached - oh! when will they get the clock working again? There is also the Buck Inn, the Plough Hotel, and several 'olde worlde' cottages in Buck Lane and Church Lane. Don't forget the stocks set into St. Martin's Church wall!

Nor do we just live in the past. Most importantly, the Hall was built in two stages and is now of great use to the Church and to the wider community. A few yards from the Hall is the Church tower, now covered in scaffolding and requiring much-needed repairs. The congregation is working hard to raise the £200,000 plus that is required - all contributions gratefully received! Do come and have a look round our thriving village sometime.

I shall look forward to seeing you all in the new venue for our meetings - the United Reformed Church on Montague Road...


Victor Black
Chairman