There are a number of families who have had long associations with Springhill. I could consider the Ashworths who built Springhill House in c1830 and retained an association with it until 1923. I could consider the Taylors, five generations of this family having lived in Sunset View. However I will consider the Griffins family of 420 Newchurch Road, whose association with Springhill came to an end this week.

It was over 60 years ago that Martin Griffin, teacher and well known local trade unionist, moved into 420 Newchurch Road, then a council house. Martin and his wife Mary had two children, Martin junior and Maureen. Neither of the children married and they shared the house until Martin's death, after which Maureen continued to live there.

Maureen initially worked for an ice-cream company then in the bank for many years until she retired. In addition to her work life she was a JP for over 20 years, the treasurer of the local youth club, former president of the Soroptomists (amongst other roles) and very heavily involved in her church, St James the Less RC.

Sadly Maureen died this week aged 66. RIP, lovely lady.



(screenshot Rossendale Free Press 17 Jan 2020)