Shavington villagers step back in time with new book

Villagers have pulled together to produce a new book capturing the rich history of Shavington.

A Step Back in Time will be launched this autumn following a community-wide effort to gather and preserve photographs and stories of the village.

The idea for the book first began in 2012, but it wasn’t until the creation of the Shavington Heritage Group – working in partnership with the Parish Council – that the project gained momentum.

The Parish Council, as part of its 2024-2029 Strategy want to celebrate the Heritage of the Village and the Heritage Group was formed in October 2024. The enthusiastic Heritage Group, made up of Parish Councillors and employees and keen residents, began appealing for photographs and stories.

Residents were invited to drop off images at the Village Hall, bring them to evening heritage meetings, or even post them through the door.

The appeal was shared in newsletters and through local organisations. Information and additional images were also gathered from the Cheshire Archives, the Crewe Family History Unit, and Nantwich Museum. Within just a few months, over 270 images were collected, spanning from the 1840s Victorian period right through to the 1980s. The book features many well-known Shavington families such as the Kendrick’s, Cadman’s, Cockshott’s, and Broadhurst’s.

Thanks to funding support from MPire Books and a £250 Parish Council grant, the book has been brought to life. All profits will be donated to charities, including the Shine Bright Foundation and other local causes.

The book covers a wide range of village history including Victorian murder and intrigue on Back Lane and the fascinating history of Oakfield Zoological Gardens, forerunner to Chester Zoo.

There’s stories of WWI and WWII, including those who served, those lost, and bomb damage in the village as well as many interesting well-known characters, shops, businesses, schools and sports teams.

“This is a project we have always wanted to do,” said a Heritage Group spokesman.

“It has only been possible thanks to the dedication of local people and the Parish Council working together. The project is not only a book but a celebration of Shavington-cum-Gresty’s strong community spirit and the preservation of its heritage for generations to come.”

The book will be available from  October 26. Pre-orders can be placed until September 28, via 01270 421125, or by emailing clerk@shavingtononline.co.uk .

Collection is at the Village Hall between 10am and noon on October 26. It can also be posted for an additional fee.

Pics

The landmark Cheshire Cheese in bygone days

A Step Back in Time has been a village effort

Shavington has a long history of staging an annual panto – here’s Babes in the Wood in 1979

All dressed up – fancy dress in the church hall in 1937