[Dave Walsh]

I was back in Church recently [nice pies at the shop on Henry Street]. On Friday 7th of August, my brother and I had a walk around in the sunshine with a view to looking at Hargreaves Mill and the Lodging House. I thought somebody might be working at the Mill or are they just using it as a Builder's Yard? The red brick Model Lodging House next door must have had going on 50 rooms. I counted three rows of eight rooms at the back! My brother pointed out that the section furthest away from the canal looks like designated accomodation for perhaps the official/administrative section or the Warden and his family? My place in Rammy had Warden accommodation but as it's part demolished, I'm not sure how that was arranged. We were hoping to find some sort of ID on the building but nothing? The header over what seems too be the front entrance is in sandstone and very worn away, contrasting with the Accy Brick construction. There seems to have been some wording on there once but very faint, we couldn't make it out at all. Any ideas? Phil rang me yesterday to say the MLH is now on sale at £240k. That seems opptomistic to say the least.

In spired by the Rammy/Church coincidence I made a rough list of others in Lancs at one point but it's misplaced at the moment. Shortage of time is usually the problem plus too many things going on.

I've known Accrington for years but never really had a close look at the Centre [apart from the great library building that served Jeanette Winterson so well]. We were really impressed as outsiders but I know those who've lived with a decline may not agree. It's still a very interesting place in our view. I tried to get a street map in Smiths but settled for a more general one instead. They cheerfully agreed that they get asked for these regularly but it's Head Office at fault apparently. Just like the old joke-we don't stock it-your the fifth person to ask this week. I'll be back on site in a few weeks.
Dave