Bank Top was a fascinating area of Bolton built for the workers of the New Eagley Mills in Ashworth’s Bottoms.

It had a chapel, shop and a genuine community spirit.

“The Ashworth family established the Bank Top model village over a period of time mainly in the first half of the 1800s.

“There were a number of different types of houses from two up and two down to three and four bedroom houses.

“The houses were quite modern with a family room, kitchen and pantry. Each cottage had a toilet in the yard. In 1835 piped water replaced a well.”

The occupants were expected to keep their homes clean and tidy and to make sure this happened a snap inspection would take place by the Ashworths at regular intervals, explains Norman.

“Before Hathaway Drive was built there was a wonderful hillside for sledging. I believe the land belonged to Kay’s farm and on snowy days there could be up to 50 or more adults and children taking advantage of the snow with mainly home made sledges of different designs and sizes.

“The Ashworths were keen on education for their employees and by 1833, 98 per cent of their employees could read.

“Not everything ran smoothly, as the Ashworths were against trade unions and one strike in particular caused trouble.

“In 1830, many mill owners reduced wage rates because of new larger mules being brought into the factory. Like spinners in other mills they went on strike.”

One evening, during the strike, some of the men broke every window in the school, that had opened in the village in 1933, explains Norman, and they also threatened the mill manager who escaped up a chimney.

The school was used for non denominational services but by 1910 the congregation had joined the Congregational Church.

“The Chapel was originally six cottages which were converted into one building.

In 1972 around three quarters of Congregational churches in England merged with the Presbyterian Church of England and the two became the United Reformed Church.”

Bank Top had, at one time, a thriving tennis club which began in 1923 but after the war, numbers started to decline.

In 1992 Bank Top Brewery took over the premises and created a thriving business there, adds Norman.

Bank Top was a village in its own right and had an identity that was distinct and individual.

Do you have memories of this area?

If so get in touch with Gayle McBain on 01204 537269 or email gayle.mcbain@nqnw.co.uk