THIS photograph from 1947 was taken to illustrate a new local committee being formed to persuade women to "help the cotton industry in its hour of need".

Our image shows a visit by the committee to the United Thread Mills at Eagley where they watched operatives at work on combers — which prepared carded fibre for spinning

The firm employed 950 workers and specialised in sewing and knitting cotton, manufactured from high grade Egyptian cotton and mending wool.

Its products, distinguished by the name of Chadwick — the firm was founded in 1795 by Jas Chadwick — were sent to every part of the world and the company was the first to introduce the five-day week of 45 hours in this district and was a pioneer in operatives' welfare 20 years previously.

Perhaps you have memories of working in the cotton industry and remember the days when the cotton mills were thriving in Bolton.

They were noisy places to work but offered employment to many local folk in Bolton and beyond.

If you do have memories to share get in touch with Gayle McBain on 01204 537269 or email gayle.mcbain@nqnw.co.uk