My Childhood in Astmoor
I lived in Astmoor with my grandparents. My grandma sold sweets, pop and cigarettes. I went to Halton School and walked down Astmoor Lane which we called Summer Lane. Grandad worked at Astmoor tannery. We lived next to Ivy House, it used to be a farm. I have pictures of Astmoor before Astmoor bridge was built, and of Astmoor tannery. Gran used to take me down a path to the ship canal and we used to watch the boats. Mr and Mrs Lou Varey lived in a little wooden house that we called Ferry Hut. I remember the tannery being demolished, and all the houses in Marsh Lane, to make way for factories. I have so many memories, some good and some painful. We used to walk to Sandy Cove where boys went swimming till a boat came past and they swam to the side to avoid the waves. I also went to play at Wardles Farm, Mr Wardle was a dentist and his sons ran the farm. My childhood was taken from me when the new town was built. Although my old house is partly still standing sadly it was set on fire and now is in ruins. I often drive past and get a lump in my throat remembering all that used to be there.
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RE: RE: My Childhood in Astmoor
It was interesting to read "My Childhood in Astmoor" as my mum also lived there with her parents, sisters and brother. I know the old house you refer to as my mum lived next door. My mum's maiden name was Withington and my grandfather was the Foreman of Astmoor Tannery. I've heard so many stories about Astmoor, and also feel sad when I pass there. Many of my family members who lived there have gone now and so it was great to read your memories too. I think the only thing remaining of the tiny hamlet is the small bridge over the canal which bears the name "Astmoor Bridge". I've been trying to find an old map of the area which will help me remember what the area was like years ago.
Comment from Janine Fozard on Tuesday, 23rd March 2010.
RE: RE: My Childhood in Astmoor
What a great page to read about all our childhood memories, I've always wanted to find out where 'Sandycove' was, as I remember mum and dad driving us there for a picnic and paddle on a nice sunny Sunday afternoon. Whilst we were there I remember seeing big lorries in the distance loading up white powder stuff which I think we were told it was the lime plant? It was only a ten minute drive away for us from 'Halton Brook'. I've lived in Runcorn over 40 yrs now and know a fair few places, but as we were only kiddies at the time I can't pin point where 'Sandycove' was. Dad used to head out towards Astmoor but now I'm older I'm thinking could it of been by the 'Blue Lagoon' at Wigg Island and could the limestone plant of been in Warrington Rd? I'm also very interested in hearing about Ivy House in your comment as I used to work as a kennel maid in the house attached to Ivy House - that was about 1984, I was 16 and worked for a German gentleman who would breed German Shepherd Dogs. If anyone could pin point to me where 'Sandycove' actually was I would be very grateful. Many thanks.
Comment from Paula Parry on Monday, 7th May 2012.