Two Pickup Bank Chapels explores their history and development from when the first chapel was built in 1834 to the present day. This is a story of adaptation and resilience, as over the centuries the inhabitants of Hoddlesden and Yate and Pickup Bank have had to respond to factors which have largely been outside of their control. Dr Parker has combined excellent research with a highly readable style. Accounts such as this are invaluable, leaving a unique record for future generations. The narrative will appeal to anyone connected to the chapels but also more widely to local and family historians and all those who have an interest in the broader local social history. The book sets a pattern for those writing their own church, school, or village history.



The author, Roy Parker, during his eighty plus years connection with the Chapels relates a scenario of continual change not only in the buildings but also in many other ways during their history which is just short of two centuries since the first place of worship emerged. During this period there have been considerable changes in the township's industry and social life along with fluctuations in attendance, expectations and even desire at both chapels.



During most of first seven decades of the first Chapel's history the local population were relatively poor in worldly aspects. They had to work very hard in a cottage industry and survive a harsh lifestyle. However, from the twentieth century onwards large population movements from upland rural to valley village life changed to an industrial lifestyle. This influenced their desire for an enhanced Chapel. So one was built and became a thriving institution. Yet finally, lower attendance and deterioration of the fabric caused cessation of the second Chapel. The first Chapel was then resuscitated.



Nevertheless, the original Chapel survives, and the text illustrates shades of passion particularly at Christmas time when numbers attending must be restricted to prevent overcrowding.



The Darwen Brass Band plays at the event as well as at each of the normal services when an old-fashioned log fi re welcomes those attending. The survival of this Chapel has largely depended on good will, hard work and devoted conscientious volunteers.



The book is well illustrated with over 100 illustrations, including maps, figures and plates.