John Stapleton celebrates the history of Rochdale

Presenter John Stapleton will be looking into Rochdale’s past for a new history series on BBC Radio Manchester.

The programme is part of a series celebrating the heritage and history of each of Greater Manchester’s ten Metropolitan Boroughs.

The series will investigate the people, places and events that have shaped the towns and cities of the region - from the Industrial Revolution, through Empire and World Wars to social changes of the 60’s and 70’s.

‘John Stapleton’s History of Rochdale’ features an emotional interview with Norman Smith, who describes growing up with his brother Cyril in 1930’s Rochdale. He reflects on his brother’s political career and recalls how Cyril made his mum Mayoress in 1966.

Legendary Rochdale singer Gracie Fields is remembered, with rare tape from BBC Radio Manchester in the 1970’s uncovered. The piece, produced when she witnessed the opening of the Gracie Fields Theatre in Rochdale, hears her dedicate a special song to the people of Rochdale.

The programme also features a look at how early Radicals and Liberals from Rochdale influenced the way we live today, the Rochdale Pioneers and the birthplace of the Cooperative Movement, and how lovers of fish and chips have a lot to thank Rochdale for.

Mr Stapleton said: "Being from Greater Manchester myself, I was delighted to be a part of this series. It's a fascinating insight into the rich heritage of our towns and cities and the impact that their history has had on the world we know today.

“Rochdale has a strong tradition of non-conformity and a very varied history, from politics right through to fish and chips!”

‘John Stapleton’s History of Rochdale’ can be heard on BBC Radio Manchester, 95.1 FM/ DAB on Friday 8 April 12noon-1pm