Then onto the Parkhaven Estate to view the movie star Rex Harrison’s house, looking rather sad and neglected. On the same estate we admired the beautiful, moated Maghull Manor, former home of the wealthy and powerful Molyneux family. The Red Lion Bridge proved to be another historic location with a cautionary tale of failing to obey a WW1 sentry’s challenge. The old Red Lion Pub which was on the site now taken over by a bathroom showroom, also received a mention. At St. Andrew’s Church we were treated to a fascinating talk by the Church Wardens inside the 13th Century Unsworth Chapel. Many of the group, in spite of living in Maghull for many years, had no idea of its existence!
In the old Kennessee Green area of Maghull the history of two famous sons of Maghull, Frank Hornby and Rafael Sabatini was explored. We then took the canal towpath and alighted at Melling Stone Bridge on Brewery Lane to view the very historic 17thC Wood Hall Farm with a James 2nd connection. In the village of Melling the church graveyard revealed an interesting story of the former Reverend Miles Formby. The Reverend came from the well known Formby family and was known for his philanthropy towards the village. Opposite the church Melling Delph yielded up more historic facts from its days as a former quarry and rifle range.
On to the 15thC Melling Tithebarn where we enjoyed a welcome hot lunch provided by local volunteers. Our last fact stop was the scene of the brutal murder of his parents by Brian Blackwell in July 2004.
We then took to a network of footpaths to retrace our steps back to Maghull and completion of our 8.25 mile walk with a difference! So not only a good walk but a fascinating insight into the wealth of local history that is right on our doorstep . Many thanks to Alan for the walk and talk and for organising a great lunch at the Tithebarn.