Voices of Oldham

Once the largest cotton-spinning centre in the world, Oldham was a vibrant town although many lived in poverty. The sense of community was very strong and this book records the stories and reminiscences of over thirty Oldhamers, in their own words. Their vivid voices recall childhood games, work, shops and entertainment, as well as the effects of war and bombing raids. 'One afternoon we could see and smell smoke coming from the roof of the church. It was my job to run up the street, go in the telephone box and dial 999. It was the very first time I'd ever been on my own to telephone anybody, and my hands were shaking. But the fire brigade came and got the fire out.' This book is illustrated with a wealth of photographs from the personal collections of the interviewees, adding considerably to the power of their stories and making this an important social and historical document as well as a fascinating read. This is community history at its best.