Located on the eastern edge of the Lancashire plain on the banks of the River Chor, at the centre of a rich agricultural area, Chorley was a market town from medieval times. This beautifully presented book depicts the growth and prosperity which arose with the Industrial Revolution, through juxtaposing old and new images of streets, buildings and people. Jack Smith has carefully selected this unique selection to reflect the effect that history has had on this typical English town.The photographs feature aspects of industry such as cotton weaving and spinning; coal mining and quarrying; and canal and railway links. Images showing the development are accompanied by changes in costume and custom, transport and trading, sport and entertainment. The captions will help the reader understand how all this contributed to the rich history of Chorley, and ensure that the book will be essential for residents and visitors alike.