AT the February meeting of Ramsbottom Heritage Society, member Clyde Tweedale outlined the development and ultimate scope of the Porritt dynasty, subsequent amalgamations, and the legacy enjoyed locally by townspeople and those of the surrounding area.

From a beginning in Yorkshire in the early years of the 19th century, brothers Joseph, James and Samuel had, by 1829, relocated their manufacturing base to Edenfield; expansion in 1838 led to the acquisition of premises at Dearden Clough, Edenfield. Further expansion realised the establishment of a new mill at Stubbins Vale in 1851.

In 1856, Joseph withdrew from the partnership to establish Sunnybank Mill at Helmshore, which once housed the worlds then largest spinning mules. In 1866, Samuel withdrew, purchasing and subsequently developing Bamford Mill, Rochdale. The brothers and their immediate descendants continued to compete with each other, with a product range comprising felts - mostly of woollen but also of cotton and synthetic fibres - for the paper-making, leather, printing and laundry industries.

In 1914, later descendants were reunited and joined forces with J.H. Spencer & Sons to form well-remembered Porritts & Spencer Ltd. Subsequent amalgamations and acquisitions have, however, removed evidence of the former partnership. At many of the sites and adjacent areas, residences, workers' housing, public buildings and industrial outbuildings were constructed, some of which remain, although many are but a memory.

In the middle years of the 20th century, Nuttall Hall and parkland were given to the people of Ramsbottom, with the Stubbins Estate subsequently being given to the National Trust, both to be enjoyed by everyone.

An interesting insight into an entrepreneurial family. Thanks were given by Jack Kenneford.

Members also considered the possible costs and opportunities presented by the society vacating its Heritage Centre building in Carr Street, in order to allow Bury MBC arts and leisure services to provide a library lending service while the library building proper is refurbished during 2005. Through the good offices of Canon Ian Rogerson and the Rev. Jeff Arcus, accommodation has been offered at St Pauls Church, Bridge Street, Ramsbottom, which will allow the society to continue to maintain a presence in the town. This offer has been gratefully accepted and plans are being made to open on Easter Sunday with a display, in acknowledgement of the offer, linking the church with the surrounding community and its activities.

The next meeting will be on Wednesday at 7.45pm in Ramsbottom Civic Hall and will comprise the results of the 2004 photography competition, and a talk by Margaret Curry, illustrating the Eden Valley.