Michael D.Heath-Caldwell M.Arch.

Linley Wood

Linley Wood, Talk-o-th-Hill, Stoke-on-Trent. 

Linley Wood Hall, Staffordshire, on Cheshire border. Stoke-on-Trent before it fell to bits.

Linley Wood stands upon a small hill in a sort of bay formed by the circle of the last Staffordshire hills as they break into the plain of Cheshire. The house, which I will describe a little further on, commands this plain of Cheshire till it terminates in the Peckforton Hills and Beeston Castle, where the towering Welsh mountains may be seen rising range after range till they are lost in the blue and misty distance.

Cheshire, covered with trees, is beautiful to look upon and a composition of Claude's could scarcely combine more beautiful effects than were at this time presented in middle distance. Swallowmore Wood and Prospect Bank formed a striking foreground, then came a line of wood in the Alsager Banks as I believe it is called, interspersed with farm houses, terminating on the Lake of Oak, a mere.

Behind this, in long lines, the woods of Crewe, through which at this time, on a clear day and with a favourable position of the sun, the houses might be seen, red and white. The old tower of Barthomley Church terminated this on the left behind the woods of Crewe. Willaston Wood and the tower of Nantwich Church might be distinguished standing distinct against the steamy grey of yet farther distance, and to this point we were bound . . . Can I leave this lovely view of churches, woods, waters, mansions, villages, pastures, farms, rising delicately under the hills?

As a very young child I remember I used to think it was such a scene that was described in The Allegro, of which when a very little girl I learned a good deal for my own amusement in the nursery..

"Straight mine eye hath caught new pleasures
While the country round it measures
Shallow brooks and rivers wide;
Towers and battlements it sees
Bosom'd high in tufted trees,"

Hannah Stamford, Anne Marsh-Caldwell's aunt was a middle aged woman with lively dark eyes, a sharp nose, thin lips and a chin rather underhung, of sprightly parts and an excellent woman - but she wanted the understanding, the humour and above all the heart, of my mother.

When she came to Linley Wood she had a couple of rooms upstairs at the end of a passage, or rather corridor with rails to the best stairs - and which, as it led to nothing else, was called "My Aunt's passage." These she fitted up, and her manner of doing so and her various tastes have perhaps more contributed to my formation and more favourably operated upon my mind and happiness than almost any circumstances of my life. And indeed with me the benefit ends not - my children are reaping it in the taste for nature and art which, cultivated in me, descends to them - and which will, I trust, ensure the happiness of their lives, if they remain single, as it certainly did of her.

Her bedroom - what we should now think a little place, 19 feet square perhaps - all the paint was of a most  scrupulous whiteness as was the paper  - a bedside carpet of green reached about 4 feet on every side of her large four post bed, hung with a chintz where stripes of roses, red, blue and yellow with green leaves, made a very gay appearance. A fringe of her own knotting and weaving and a cornice of her own painting completed the fittings; sheets of the finest texture and white as the driven snow covered it and a beautiful counterpain as white, with little knots in patterns laid over all.

The curtains of this bed were never drawn - in the day they lay neatly folded upon the bolster, at night they were the same regularity folded and laid over the foot of the bed. To touch them with one's hand would have been the greatest offence. By the side of the great bed was a sweet pretty little tent bed with mahogany rails round and hangings to correspond; one of the children slept in this, another with her.

A very handsome mahogany wardrobe of a sort of wood veined and clouded which I think could not properly be mahogany, filled one side of the room - it contained a centre and two wings and was finished at the top with a scroll of carved woodwork. It had shelves and cupboards at top and drawers beneath. Here were deposited her treasures - like Queen Elizabeth in more things than one she loved dress and rich clothes and loved to keep and possess them.

She loved her clothes almost too well to wear them. She had perhaps thirty pairs of shoes at once - from the hasped and embroidered sandal of her youth to the black high-heeled shoe with a tassel of sewing-silk finished with a little silver buckle in the centre of the day I now speak of - or rather that was gone out lately, Aunt Stamford alone retaining the fashion - to raise her, for she always seemed rather annoyed at being so little a woman. And the lively pit-a-pat of her peg heels used to sound about the house while others were in bed in a morning . . . 

This wardrobe was, and is, to me a sealed book; rarely did I see it opened - what it contained I do not even know - she left her wardrobe and all within it to her favourite niece - and it was opened and the contents dispersed when I was far away . . . By the wardrobe stood a pair of mahogany steps for her library - by that a closet where her dressing gown and sundry little articles were kept, such as garden gloves, tools, baskets etc. then came the fire, surmounted by a wooden mantelpiece painted white, over which hung several medallions of the Wedgwood blue and white in gilt frames; Apollo leaning on a tripod in the centre, medallions of Mr Wedgwood, Mr Bentley, Louis the 16th, and I think Washington was the fourth - surrounded it.

On each side hung the portraits of my father and mother by Wright of Derby - my father a very remarkably well painted picture of this beautiful young man. My mother was not the least like her as I remember her.

In a recess answering to the closet, the "raisin cupboard," a mahogany wardrobe of the old fashion, doors panneled in mahogany and glass lined with green silk - drawers beneath - the upper one what was called the secretary drawer, divided into all sorts of little compartments to keep treasures in - the delight of my childish eyes and curiosity. Above, the shelves of the wardrobe were covered with jars, pots, bottles - a few medicine, but more chymical matters - for she loved chymistry and was always burning her fingers with one experiment or another . .

The nursery was on the third storey over my Mother's room. That dear Mother - I have heard her describe the pleasure she used to take in a morning in hearing as each child was finished off in dressing, its little feet pad across the floor - these windows looked over the garden and the terrace to the fir wood - now here I laid in my bed watching the dark feathers of that wood, those plumes like the plumes of some giant's helmet waving in the wind on a lowering morning - or covered with snow

My Father and Mother were Unitarian dissenters and they did not choose to go to Church. They had "Chapel" in their own home. My beautiful and dignified Father had drawn up for his own use a little service which every Sunday at eleven o'clock he read to his assembled servants and family.

This was the way we sat; the bow of the dining room had three windows - in the centre a table, in the two others two sweet little black horsehair sofas, chairs in the piers. On one of these sofas, the right hand one, my Mother had her seat, by her, on the same sofa, the youngest child yet admitted to the House of God - and this child had a particular Bible - a red and gold one with a clear print - to read the Psalms. Watt's Psalms were laid to every seat.

My Aunt sat against a pier on the opposite side of the room - I think she had her set place too; the rest of the children and any guests that might be in the house ranged on the chairs round the bow - in the centre the dining table, my Father's chair with back to the fire side; (Sketch diagram of the dining room is to be found in the original M.S. at this place) - his mahogany desk on the table, his Bible prayers and Watts' Psalm.

At the lower end of the room, a circle of chairs, where sat all the servants, both household and those belonging to the farm - at the head my Aunt's maid, always a rather fine lady - then the cook, nurse, housemaid, kitchen maid - Betty Rigby and her daughters from the farm among them; the Butler or footman (more properly groom) and farm servants finished the row. The men servants were increased afterwards by the addition of a manservant for my Aunt and an under footman, and the groom became a coachman. The cook and kitchenmaid came Sunday and Sunday by turns - so did the nurse and housemaid as long as there were little ones.

When service was over we used on fine summer days to run out into the garden in our white frocks, fluttering about for the short half hour till dinner. My Mother used to assemble us about 4 or 5 o'clock

My Father was fond of reading. As soon as the winter evenings set in, after tea, about five or six o'clock, the table was drawn to the fire in the little breakfast room with two candles, my Father one the one end with feet to the fire - my Mother next to him, my Aunt and all the rest of us round the table at our works. Two tallow candles in old plated sticks, the favourite greyhound on the hearth;

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24 February 1833

(Original Story) "Kitty's Joe." A local tale of Love and Jealousy) - by J.C. Williams

I am an old man, and memory often fails me; but I shall never forget the night of February 24th, 1833. I had been spending a few days with a friend who lives in the neighbourhood of Lawton, and I was to have reached Newcastle on that memorable night, and have remained for a time as the guest of mine host of the Red Lion, in the square of that ancient borough.

The day was unusually gloomy. A dense yellow atmosphere gave an unearthly aspect to the entire landscape. However, early in the evening I started upon my walk to Newcastle.

I had hardly passed the Lawton Arms when the wind rose, and rain began to fall, and my the time I reached Linley Wood,it came down in torrents. Passing under the wood I caught a glimpse of a cheery light through the chinks of the shutters of a cottage, which stood close upon the roadway - with a low wall between it and the footpath. I knocked on the door and asked for shelter until the storm abated. My appeal was answered by a woman of tall stature, who said in a coarse, but not unkind tone, "Ay, mon, the art welcome to a shelter. I would-na like a dog o' mine to be out on sich a  neet." 

In the course of the conversation which followed my entrance into the cottage I learned that her husband had been killed in a pit accident six years before. But observing a youth of eighteen years of age sitting quietly in the chimney nook, I said that I supposed he was her son. "Nay, Joe isna my lad, though I have tried to be a mother to him. We have no children, my Mon and me. But one day a Gipsy wench called and axed me for a drink of warter, and begged me to let her leave the lad here, while her went across to Butt Lane. However, the wench never com'd back; and when Elijah  - that was my husband  - got home from the pit, he said, 'Well, Kity, wench, we are non on our own, and praps this is the Loard's doin, and we can keep th lad.' I wasna unwillin, and so Joe's bin wi me every sin.' 

The storm, in the meantime, instead of abating, became more furious; and, immediately after a tremendous rush of wind, which I thought would unroof the house, there arose the wildest, the most demonic cry I ever heard. It was like the yell of a giant spirit in torture, passing into  a profound dying moan. My flesh seemd to shrink from the horrible sound. The lad leaped from his seat by the fire, his face became deadly pale, and his eyes dilated, seemed to be gazing into vacancy. The woman clasped her arms around his neck, kissed him wildly, and with great convulsive sobs cried, "Nay, Joe my lad, it conna be the token o' thy doom as it was o' his. I conna lose thee, my lad, and be left lone and broken-hearted to die. Ay God, spare my lad, spare my lad!" and exhausted by her excitement, she sunk down in her chair, the lad nestling at he side.

When she became calmer she informed me that the awful sound we had heard was the cry of the "Kitcrew Buggart' (or Kidsgrove Boggart) and that it was always the sure sign of some coming colliery accident. I endeavoured to show her that this was only a local superstitious notion. But my effort was in vain. - - - 

I related what had occurred to my host, who assured me that faith in the "Boggart" was at one time widely prevalent in the district, though many were then learning to smile at it as an old-time superstition. He was acquainted with the woman at the cottage, having once lived at Talke; and he told me that her name was Catherine Wilson, but she was best known as "Kitty," and the lad as "Kitty's Joe."  - - - - 

Saturday 28 April 1888
Staffordshire Sentinel

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Saturday 21 November 1891
Staffordshire Advertiser

Serious Fire at Linley Wood - This residence, which is situated between Kidsgrove and Harecastle, and is the family seat of the Misses Marsh-Caldwell, was seriously damaged by fire on Saturday and narrowly escaped total destruction. 

The hall has a stuccoed exterior and is of considerable antiquity, a sun-dial in the garden bearing the date 1686. The wing where the fire broke out, which is three stories in height and forms part of the back premises, was erected in about 1800. The fire was discovered about half-past twelve having originated in one of the servants' bedrooms. 

A great deal of timber is used in the construction of the hall, and this, being dry with age, proved highly inflammable,the fire spreading with alarming rapidity. 

The fire brigades of Sandbach and Tunstall were sent for, and pending their arrival those present exerted themselves to save the furniture, bedding, books, and pictures from the fire. More zeal than discretion seems to have been used in this work, the goods being thrown out of the windows or roughly removed,  and a great deal of damage being done. 

The Sandbach Fire Brigade, under Capt. Cooke, arrived first with their manual engine, the Tunstall brigade, under Capt. Lee, coming up on their steamer soon afterwards. The latter was of plentiful service, the water having to be thrown up a steep hill at the bottom of the meadows, which no hand engine could have done and which taxed the powers of steam to accomplish. 

The Sandback engine was supplied from the hall tank. The fire was played upon steadily, without apparent effect at first, but the volume of water which was poured into the burning building gradually subdued the flames, which gave way to smoke and steam, and after the operations had been continued for about two hours a mastery over the fire was obtained. 

The Tunstal brigade and engine remained at the hall until nearly nine o'clock, in the event of a fresh outbreak occurring. 

The front portion of the hall has fortunately escaped injury, a fact which is due to the calm weather, for had a strong wind prevailed, the fire would most probably have seized upon the whole building before the arrival of the firemen and engines. 

As it is, however, the fire was confined to the chambers over the dining-room and the dining-room itself, which are burnt out and the roof is demolished. 

A quantity of the servants' clothing was destroyed but the plate and jewelery belonging to the Misses Marsh-Caldwell was preserved. A jewel-case with its valuable contents was missing at first, but was discovered among the debris. A force of the county constabulary, under the charge of Supt. Hall, was present during the fire, and at night remained in charge of the salvage on the lawn, which was covered with tarpaulin. 

The Rev. M.W.McHutchin, rector of Talke, placed his house at the disposal of the Misses Marsh-Caldwell, and the servants were temporarily accommodated at various houses in the neighbourhood. 
The fire is attributed to an accidental cause during the fumigation by sulphur of one of the bedrooms where a case of fever had been treated. The damage is estimated at about £2,000, and the loss is covered by insurance. 

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Saturday 12 August 1893
Illustrated Sporting and Dramatic News

Whilst on the subject of dog stories, I must include this from the Spectator, vouched for by Frisk's owner, Miss Georgina A. Marsh-Caldwell. 

Frisk is a little red Blenheim, and the writer says that her pet always slept in a basket, close to the hall-door. One night she dashed up the stairs, loudly barking, ran first to my eldest sisters room, then through a swing door to another sister's room, barking outside each door, then upstairs again to my room at the top of the house, where she remained barking till I got up and opened it, when she ran in, still barking, and waited till I was ready to go down with her. She scampered on before me, I following close, and when we both reached the hall she dashed still barking to the door, to show me whence her alarm had arisen. 
It was the policeman turning the handle of the door from the outside to see if it was properly closed. 

One night, a long time after the first adventure, I was wakened by a quiet scratch at the door of my room. No barking, this time but, tiresome as it was to be disturbed on a cold night, I got up and opened the door, and was conscious in the darkness that Frisk was standing there. Come in. Frisk,' said I. But no movement; Frisk stood waiting. Come in, Frisk,' I repeated, somewhat sharply. No movement, no bark.

Then, being sure that something must be wrong, I lighted a candle, and there stood Frisk outside the door, never offering to come in. She trotted quietly down before me, not speaking a word. When we were both through the swing-door, and at the head of the stairs, I saw that the inner door to the hall was open, and also that of the morning-room, from which shone a bright light. 

My heart went pit-a-pat for a moment then seeing Frisk run quietly down the stairs, I followed her, when she calmly jumped into her basket again, and I, venturing into the morning-room, found that my brother-in-law had left the lamp burning by mistake, a proceeding which Frisk plainly knew was wrong, and had therefore come upstairs to inform me, but had not thought it necessary to disturb the rest of the household this time! 

She had come straight up to my room without disturbing any one else, to tell me of the irregularity of a light burning when every one was in bed, and that being done, jumped into bed again, conscious of having per formed her duty."

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Thursday 7 February 1895
Morning Post
Wanted, for the country, single-handed under a butler, a Youth of not less than 16 to 19; must be willing to make himself useful and of excellent character. - Address M.C. Linley Wood, Talke, Staffordshire

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Saturday 8 June 1895
Staffordshire Advertiser

Festivals at Talke
On Monday the 16th annual festival took place at Talke in connection with the schools and parochial objects. The custom of dressing the wells was not followed this year, but the Maypole dancing was effectively carried out under the super-intendence of the Rev. J. Badnall, of Endon.  - - -

The Shepherds-on-the-Hill Lodge No. 928, of the Ancient Order of Shepherds held their 34th anniversary on Monday. There was the usual procession of adult and juvenile members, some dressed in character and all wearing their regalia. The band of the 1st V.B. North Staffordshire Regiment headed the procession to Linley Wood, where the Misses Marsh-Caldwell, who are honorary members of the lodge, entertained the visitors. The funds amount to £3,599, and during the year £514 18s. 3½d. has been expended in sick and funeral pay. The juvenile fund has a balance of £127 11s. 9d., and an adult female branch has been opened. On returned to Talke, the members had tea in the National Schools, dancing, athletic sports, and other amusements being indulged in during the evening in an adjacent field. 

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Thursday 3 October 1895
Morning Post

Wanted for the country, where there are three in the kitchen as Scullery Maid, a strong, clean, and hard-working Girl, about 16; one from a respectable farm not objected to. - Address Linley Wood, Talke, Sstaffordshire.

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Thursday 31 October 1895
Morning Post

As Upper Housemaid of two, or second of four in London: age 24; 18 months good character ; 5ft 7½in - F. Newton, Linley Wood, Talke-o-th-Hill, Staffordshire.

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Thursday 2 July 1896
Morning Post

Wanted, for the country, a Kitchenmaid under a good cook - address Linley Wood, Stoke-upon-Trent

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Thursday 22 July 1897
Morning Post

Wanted, as House-maid for the country only (as Upper of two), an active, thoroughly-working Person, with unexceptionable character. - Address, Linley Wood, Stoke-upon-Trent.

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Thursday 19 August 1897
Morning Post

Wanted, for the country only, a youth of between 16 and 17  years of age as Footman, single-handed under a butler; must have been out before. - Address, Linley Wood, Stoke-upon-Trent.

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Thursday 2 December 1897
Morning Post.

Wanted, for the country only, a Youth of from 16 to 18, not less than 5ft. 7in in height as Footman under a butler;  must have been in house service previously  - Address, Linley Wood, Stoke-upon-Trent.

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Tuesday 18 January 1898
Morning Post

Wanted, for the country only, a Lady's Maid, Equal of two, to wait on three ladies; must understand dressmaking and some millinery; of undeniable character and strong health. Address - Linley Wood, Talke, Staffordshire.

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Tuesday 3 May 1898
Morning Post
Wanted, a thoroughly-respectable Person as good Laundry-Maid; single-handed, but with regular assistance.  - Linley Wood, Stoke-on-Trent

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Thursday 1 September 1898
Morning Post

Wanted for the country, a Good Laundry-Maid, single-handed, with assistance; three ladies and household to wash for; respectable character - Address, Linley Wood, Stoke-on-Trent

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Thursday 24 November 1898
Morning Post

Wanted, a Kitchen-Maid for the country only; a respectable girl, and early riser; must understand vegetables, &c.; no dairy - Address, Linley Wood, Stoke-upon-Trent

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Saturday 8 April 1899
Newcastle Guardian and Silverdale, Chesterton and Audley Chronicle

Talke. - The Rev. M.W. MacHutchin, rector presided, supported by the Rev. Henry Lloyd-Davies and E.Armytage Wade, assistant curates. The churchwardens' accounts showed receipts £152 16s. 8d. and expenditure £157 5s. 3½d. The rector nominated Mr Reginald N. Wood as his churchwarden, and Mr S. Colelough was re-elected as the parish warden. A vote of thanks was accorded to the Misses Marsh-Caldwells for their kindness to the churches during the past year.

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Thursday 23 September 1909
Staffordshire Sentinel

Beating the Bounds
Picuturesque Custom Revised at Alsager. 
Adventurous Explorers
An old custom of "Beating the Bounds" was revived in Alsager on Wednesday, when the Chairman of the Council, along with the Vice-chairman, three other members of the Council, and a number of enthusiastic villagers perambulated the boundaries of the district, the proceedings occupying quite seven hours. 

Sixty years is said to have elapsed since a similar experience was enjoyed, and although one of the party on Wednesday had passed the Psalmist's span of years, three score and ten, yet he was not one to participate in the last ramble of its character. Everyone was therefore, a stranger to the business, and it was probably more interesting in consequence. The probability is that, as far as Alsager is concerned, this old practice of "beating the bounds" will be continued for many years to come. - - - 

The commencement of the expedition saw a party of thirteen assemble at Radway Green bridge, and perhaps five miles had been traversed when this number was somewhat augmented, those in attendance being - - - 

There is an old legend, as there is for almost every mysterious spot up and down the country, that on one occasion a man, who was somewhat of a daring nature, decided to ride over this particular spot, and in the act both the rider and the horse were lost to view and sank.  - - - 

Cresswellshaw was eventually reached, where the main road was crossed, following which the remainder of the journey was by a stream running under Lawton Rd, the North Staffordshire Railway on to Linley and Swallowmoor Woods. Mere Lake, then for some distance near the Audley boundary, and next on to the bridge at Radway Green. Many rough passages were encountered en route, and it was very laughable to see the chairman, along with Mr Charles Holdcroft, both big in stature, ploughing their way under the different tunnels through which a quantity of water was flowing. - - - 

Way were made through different hedges so as to keep to the boundary, woods were explored, and the stream crossed dozens of times during the ramble.  - - - 

Message in a Bottle

The explorers had almost reached Lawton-road bridge when a halt was made, and one could see in the distance a couple of welcome visitors approaching, for it afterwards transpired that they brought to the hungry and thirsty crowd that which was most required. 

It was a happy thought on the part of the Chairman, for it was he who was responsible for the arrangement, and it need hardly be wondered at that the many sandwiches were very soon demolished as well as the refreshments in the liquid line. 

Later on, in Linley Wood, a place which was once a Roman settlement, the contents of another black-looking bottle were demolished. With that little business completed, the Chairman adopted a suggestion thrown out, and placed inside the bottle a note containing the following:—

"This bottle was emptied in Linley Wood on the occasion of the members of the Council walking the boundaries of the parish, September 22nd, 1909.—Signed, W. H. Goss (Chairman), J. Kirkham (Vice-chairtnan), C. Holdcroft, J. Holland, A. Cowden ,and H. B. Lynam (Surveyor)." 

It was afterwards securely corked and deposited in the stream, which is believed to be a tributary to the River Weaver at Northwich.

At the conclusion of the luncheon in the vicinity of Mr. William Foden's farm, a letter of apology for absence was read from Mr. J. J. Nelson, and some speech making followed. 

In a short address, Mr. Goss expressed the opinion that it was far the best to continue such old customs as that of "beating the bounds." (Hear, hear,) It was a pity to allow such customs to die out, for there was a great deal of information to be accrued by such a procedure. He hoped that the future chairmen of the Council would see that the custom was kept alive, and that a great interest was centred in it. (Applause.) 

Mr. Kirkham, in proposing the health of the chairman, expressed the thanks of all present for abundant generosity, for they had indeed enjoyed the lunch provided. (Hear. hear.) The outing was a very novel experience to him personally, and he was glad to participate in it. 

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Monday 17 April 1911
Staffordshire Sentinel

The Late Miss Rosamond Marsh-Caldwell

Funeral at Talke
The funeral took place on Thursday afternoon, at Talke, of Miss Rosamond J. March-Caldwell, whose death occurred at her residence, Linley Hall, on Palm Sunday evening. A very large gathering assembled at the Talke Parish Church to pay a last token of respect to the deceased lady before the interment of the remains.

The cortege left Linley Hall about 2 o'clock. The coffin and hearse were covered with beautiful floral tributes. The body was contained in a shell, which was enclosed in a polished oak coffin, with brass furniture and breast plate, bearing the inscription, "Rosamond Jane Marsh-Caldwell, aged 87 years." 
The mourners were:- Mrs Isaacs, Mr John Loring, of Dodington  (nephew); General Frederick Heath R.E. (nephew); and Mrs Heath,  Mr Cuthbert Heath, Captain Duke Crofton R.N., and Mr Neill Loring of Market Drayton. 

Others who followed were: Mrs Macdonald, of Betley Hall, Mr and Miss Baker-Wilbraham of Rode Hall, Miss Wilbraham (Cresswell Shaw), Mr Frank Rigby,of the Grove, Mr and Mrs Reginald N. Wood and Miss Wood of Bignall End; Dr GreatRex, of Kidsgrove; Mr William Warnwright, and tenants and employees of the Linley Estate. 

The Ancient Order of Shepherd (Talk-o'-th'-Hill Lodge), of the female branch of the society the deceased lady had been a member since its formation, was represented by Bros. John Smith (secretary), Edwin Martin (treasurer), William Edwards, F.Wharton, and the female branch by Mrs Lowndes and Mrs Handcock. 

Representing the Audley Urban District Council were: Councillors Jos. Wilkinson (chairman), T.L. 

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Saturday 8 November 1913
Stafforshire Sentinel

Beating the Bounds at Audley on Thursday. The iterinary(?) is an extensive one, between 30 and 40 miles in extent, and about 15 miles was accomplished during the day. A start was made at Red Street at 9.30, the route being by Bells Hollow, Newcastle Road, Hollinswood, Red Bull, Linley Wood, Mere Lake, and on to Short Fields Farm , the residence of Mr. W. Basford which divides the parishes of Audley and Balterley. The members of the party included Councillors T.I. Nicklin and G. Taylor, and Mr W. Kerr (oversees), Mr. W. Colclough (assistant-overseer), Councillors J.H. Maddock (vice-chairman), E.W.Edwards, D.Bailey, and A.J.Mottram (gas engineer), Mr G.Dobson (water inspector), Mr. H. Fox (sanitary inspector), Mr.A.J. Harvey (relieving officer), Messrs T.Cornes and A.Turnock (road forema at Audley and Talke respectively), S.Smith (Diglake Farm), F.Cornes and W.Cooper (Eardley End). They were led by the surveyor who carried an ordnance map, and the assistant-overseer. During the expedition there were numerous incidents and difficult situations were encountered. In one instance members of the party were compelled to walk through brushwood in single file for a mile, between Mill Dale and Audley Waterworks. It was also discovered during the journey that two cottages at Linley Hall, and a similar number at Old Butt Lane, which had been previously marked outside, were within the parish boundary. continues - - - -

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Friday 29 May 1914
Runcorn Guardian

Linley Wood

To be let, furnished, the above, about 3 miles from Alsager Station and 2 miles from Harcastle Station.
THe house stands in about 11 acres of grounds and woods, and is approached by a drive about half a mile long, with lodges on the Linley Lane and the Newcastle Road.

The house contains entrance hall, drawing room, morning room, dinning room and library, besides kitchens, pantry, housekeeper's room, servant's hall, &c &c. on the ground floor. On the first floor there are 8 best bedrooms and dressing rooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 w.c.'s, servants room, maid's room, linen room, &c. On the top storey there are 4 best bedrooms, 1 maid's room, 1 play room, and in separate wing there are 3 maid's rooms and 1 servant man's room.

There is stabling for 8 horses, coachhouse or garage for 3 cars, harness room, &c. There are 2 tennis courts, 3 conservatories, forcing house, frames &c. Lighted throughout by electricity and heated with hot water. Has just been redecorated throughout. Supplied with water from District Council mains, Large cellars in basement.

To be let for 5 years, or possibly for a less term.
Apply to John Loring, Estate Office, Doddington, Nantwich.

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Saturday 23 July 1949
Chester Chronicle

Wanted at once. good plain Cook for two or three months; good personal references - Write Mrs.Heath-Caldwell, Linley Wood, Talke, Stoke-on-Trent. Phone Kidsgrove 41. 

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Saturday 30 July 1949
Wellington Journal

Good plain cook Wtd. temporary probably for 2 or 3 months, family 4, country, but good service buses to large towns with short walk - Address Mrs. Heath-Caldwell, Linley Wood, Talke, Stoke-on-Trent.

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Sales Brochure for Linley Wood Hall, Staffordshire.

Staffordshire and Cheshire Borders

Linley Wood Estate

For Sale by Auction.

25th October 1949

 

Venders’ Solicitors-

Messrs Knight & Sons, Ironmarket,

Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffs

 

Joint Auctioneers-

Louis Taylor & Sons, F.A.I.

Hanley

Stoke-on-Trent

Congleton

 

Henry Manley & Sons, Ltd

Crewe

Nantwich

Market Drayton

Whitchurch

 

By order of the Personal Representatives of the late Major-General F.C. Heath-Caldwell, C.B.

 

Staffordshire – Cheshire Borders

Between Alsager and the Potteries

Particulars, Plans and Conditions of Sale of important freehold

Agricultural and Residential Property

Know as

The Linley Wood Estate

Comprising

The Mansion House with Grounds, Two excellent farms – Oak Farm, 182 acres; Home Farm, 83 Acres. Swallowmoor Wood of 20 Acres, Accommodation land, including part of the Alsager Golf Course, Cottages. Part of Bunker’s Hill. Allotment Garden. In all approximately 362 Acres.

With possession of the Mansion House, Woodlands and Allotment Garden, the remainder as Let and Producing an approximate Rental of £566 18s 0d per annum

Louis Taylor & Sons, F.A.I. in conjunction with Henry Manley & Sons Ltd will offer the above for Sale by Auction in One of Nine Lots or as may be declared at the time of sale at the Property Sale Rooms, Percy Street, Hanley, on Tuesday, 25th October, 1949 at 3pm.

 

General Remarks.

(which shall be deemed to form part of the Conditions of Sale, but should any inconsistency arise, the latter shall prevail.)

Tenure – The Property is Freehold

Situation – The Estate lies between Alsager and the Potteries and is intersected by good roads, including the A.5011 arterial road. Bordering Cheshire the farmland is of excellent quality, and the market towns of Crewe, Newcastle and Sandbach are within easy reach.

Viewing – These Particulars will admit to view (except Lot 3) by permission of the respective Tenants and prospective purchasers are asked to meet the convenience of Tenants and make previous arrangements for viewing where possible. Permits to  view Lot 3 only, by appointment through the Auctioneers.

Wayleaves – Receivable by the Vendor:-

(a)    £1 per annum from the Alsager Urban District Council for Water pipeline, over Lot 1.

(b)   7/- per annum for Electric Light Poles over Lot 1

Timber – There is a wealth of Growing Timber which is included with the respective Lots.

Tenancies – The tenanted Lots are sold subject to the existing tenancies and all tenant’s rights and claims. Tenants Fixtures, Fittings, and Erections and Improvements, whether mentioned in the Particulars or not, are expressly excluded from the Sale. A list of tenants fixtures, fittings and erections may be inspected on application.

Possession – Possession of Lots 3, 4 and 9 will be given upon completion.

Lotting – The Estate will first be offered as a Whole and if not sold, then as catalogued or in such other manner as may be decided upon at the time of Sale.

 

Summary of Lots

Lot No.                                                                                              Acreage

1. The Oak Farm                                                                         182.172
2. Accommodation Land (including pt. Alsager Golf Course)     40.732
3. Linley Wood (Mansion House)                                                 10.316          
4. Swallowmoor Wood                                                                  20.803
5. The Home Farm                                                                        83.636
6. Accommodation Land at Linley                                                15.764
7. Linley Cottages                                                                           0.230
8. Accommodation Land at Talke                                                   7.988 estimated
9. Allotment Garden                                                                       0.521

Total Area                                                                                           362.162

Lots 1

(Coloured Brown on Plan)

One mile from Alsager

The Highly Productive Mixed Husbandry Farm

On the Cheshire-North Staffordshire Borders known as

Oak Farm, Alsager

This Lot is let to Mr.E.J. Morris with Lot 2 on a Lady Day Tenancy. The apportioned rent of this Lot is £302.2s 0d. per annum.

Area

182 Acres, 0 Roods 27 perches

Or thereabouts, and comprises

A commodious residence built of brick and tile and slated roof and fronted by a well kept lawn and flower borders.

The Accommodation comprises – Porch, Parlour with well grate and China Closet; Dining Room; “Snug” with tiled floor and modern tiled grate; Main and Secondary Staircases to Landing off which are 3 Bedrooms and Store Room; On the Second Floor are two large Bedrooms; Kitchen with red tiled Floor; Scullery; Larder; Press House and Store Room; Good Cellar; Blue paved House-yard; Brick and tiled Wash House and Vessel Shed; Earth Closet; Small Garden

Mains water supply (by meter) Rateable Value £30

Extensive Farm Buildings are arranged in three Main Ranges.

No.1 Range Brick built with asbestos and tiled roof comprises:-Cart House; 2 Stall and 4 Stall Stables; Loose Box and Mixing House with Lofts over all.

No.2 Range built of brick with tiled roof forms Meal Store; Shippon for 24 Cows and a Calf Cote

No.3 Range brick built with tiled roof comprise:- Shippon with tying for 12 Cow; Fodder Bing; Shippon with Heifer tying for 6; Loose Box with Loft over all; Bull Box and Trap House. Brick and Corrugated Iron Range of Piggeries.

Stack Yard

5 Bay Dutch Barn on Wooden Supports and a 5 Bay Dutch Barn on Steel Supports.

The Land

Consists of Grass and Tillage in good heart and lies well for mechanical working, and the productivity is reflected in the harvested crops now on the Farm.

Two Good Glass Cottages, Brick built with tiled roofs and gables known as
Oak Cottages

Let with the Farm on Service Tenancies

Each Cottage contains:- Entrance Porch; Parlour; 3Bedrooms; Kitchen Pantry, Brick and tiled Wash House with Brick Built Wash Boiler and Tap, and an Earth Closet. Good Gardens.

Mains water laid on.

Schedule

No. on Plan  Description Acreage

List of acreages of each field

Tithe Redemption Annuities (estimated) £20 3s 10d

Note – This Lot is sold subject to the Right of Way A-B on the plan, and continuing over adjoining Property B-C, and thence over Lot 2 (No.548) C-D on plan is now enjoyed and this Lot is sold subject to such rights.

This Lot is sold subject to the Right of Way A-B on the Plan, and with the benefit of a Right of Way as now used over the adjoining property B-C and thence over Lot 2 (No.548 Pt.) C-D on the Plan as now used.

Lot 2

(coloured pink on plan)

A Block of Valuable Accommodation Land.

Adjoining the Main Road between Alsager and the Potteries (A.5011) now forming part of Oak Farm (Lot 1). This Lot is let to Mr. E. J. Morris with Lot 1 on a Lady Day tenancy. The apportioned rent to this Lot is £80 0s 0d.per annum.

Extending to an Area of 40 Acres 2 Roods 36 Perches or thereabouts

Mainly used for part of a 9 hole Gold Course by Alsager Gold Club, Ltd., who pay an annual Rent of £54 17s 6d to the Vendors, under an agreement which terminates on 8th May, 1952.

The Land

Part grazing and part Arable, is interspersed with Timber Trees and the whole occupies a good elevated site, with a long Road Frontage.

Schedule

 

Notes – The Club House, Green and Tee Equipment are the Property of the Alsager Golf Club, Ltd and are excluded from the sale.

A Right of Way is reserved in favour of Lot 5 over Field No. 542 Pt. (Points F-G on Plan) to Field No. 541,and this Lot is sold subject to such right.

A Right of Way is reserved in favour of Lot 1 over Field no.548 Pt. (Points C-D on Plan), and this Lot is sold subject to such right.

The owner of the adjoining Property known as Long Style has the right to take water though a pipe line from a well in field No.548 Pt.

 

Rents described

 

Lot 3

(coloured blue on the plan)

The Noted and Finely Situated Detached

Country Residence

“Linley Wood,” Talke, Stoke-on-Trent

Situated on the Staffordshire-Cheshire border and occupying a very fine and enviable elevated situation with panoramic Westerly view across the Cheshire Plain.

The property which is extensive is eminently suitable for a Private Residence, Hotel, School or other institutional purposes.

The Property stands in its own grounds well protected from the North and East by an extensive wood which contains a quantity of valuable timber.

The Accommodation of the Residence comprises:-

Fine Open Entrance Hall rectangular in shape.

Drawing Room (27’4” x 19’3”0 facing West with pleasant open views. There is a blue tiled fireplace with a marble surround.

Lounge (21’4” x 15’3”) also facing West with a copper and tiled fireplace.

Spacious Dining Room (22’3” x 18’0”) by window with a single casement french window, antique iron and brass firegrate with a marble surround, tiled hearth. There is a separate door leading to the Kitchen.

Library (17’0” x 15’0”) lined with bookshelves and having a firegrate with a dutch blue tiled surround.

Cloakroom with a lavatory basin and a separate half tiled W.C.

 

The Upstairs Accommodation which is grouped on two floors comprises:-

The Principal Suite of one Pleasant Bedroom (19’0” x 14’6”) with Dressing  room attached.

Five Principal Bedrooms-

Bedroom 1 (23’0” x 15’4”) with a firegrate

Bedroom 2 (13’6” x 12’0”) with a firegrate

Bedroom 3 (19’9” x 12’9”) with a firegrate

Bedroom 4 (21’0” x 15’6”) with a firegrate

Bedroom 5 (16’0” x 15’6”) with a firegrate

Bathroom 1 Part tiled with usual fittings

Separate W.C. with low flushing suite.

Bathroom 2 with usual fittings and W.C.

Two additional Bedrooms with firegrates, one having a Dressing Room attached.

Useful Linen Room fitted with white enameled cupboards and shelves.

Housemaid’s Pantry fitted with sink and lead lined draining board.

The Second Floor contains:-

Landing fitted with most useful linen cupboards.

6 Secondary Bedrooms (12’6” x 12’4”) (19’0” x 14’6”) (18’5” x 13’0”) ( 18’2” x 12’9”) ( 11’0” x 7’9”).

There are also 3 Staff Bedrooms and a Boxroom on second floor level approached by a Secondary Staircase.

 

The Domestic Accommodation contains:-

Main Kitchen (21’9” x 16’3”) with a porcelain sink. “Aga” Cooker, “Briffault” Range, independent domestic hot water boiler, serving hatch to the diningroom, fitted cream enameled cupboards and dresser.

Servant’s Hall (19’0” x 14’3”) with a firegrate.

Butler’s Pantry with a firegrate

Scullery part tiled with a porcelain sink.

2 Large Store Pantries. Useful Storeroom.

Servants Bathroom and separate W.C. Good Cellarage

Coalhouse under cover.

 

Outside-

There is an Enclosed Yard which contains:-

4 Stall Stable, with loft over. Storehouse. Engine House.

Detached Brick and Tile Garage (27’0” x 23’9”) with accommodation for 3 cars.

Large Coalhouse adjoining.

Detached Brick and Tile Workshop suitable for a Laundry.

Also a pair of Semi-detached Brick and Tile Cottages each containing Parlour, Kitchen and 2 Bedrooms. One of the cottages has an additional Scullery. Both are sold with the benefit of Vacant Possession.

 

The Gardens.

Have the advantage of well matured trees which surround the North of the property. There is a wealth of selected trees, shrubs and azaleas. Lawns, kitchen garden, sites of two tennis courts and rose gardens, etc.

Also there are –

3 Greenhouses (18’0” x 12’0”) (11’6” x 8’0”) (24’0” x 15’6”).

A potting shed.

Included in this lot is also the extensive Wood known as

Stonecliffe Wood

Situated on the North and East sides, containing a quantity of valuable timber, Chestnut, Oak, Fir, Birch, and Holly. Also Azaleas and Rhododendrons. This Woodland is important both from the value of its timber and also the fact that it acts as a protective screen to the whole property.

 

Services.

Main Water Supply

Drainage to a septic tank in field No.22

Electricity by a private generating plant supplied by a Ruston Hornsby Paraffin Engine and Batteries.

Central Heating supplied by an independent Robin Hood Boiler.

Assessment Rateable Value £94 (including the two cottages at £6 each)

The whole of this lot is sold with Possession on Completion.

Schedule

No. on Plan     Description                  Acreage

18                    Residence and Garden  2.773

17                    Woodland                     3.937

149                  Woodland                     0.234

151                  Woodland                     3.372

                                                            10.316

Or 10 acres 1 rood 10 perches approximately

Tithe Redemption Annuities (estimated) 1ls. 4d. per annum

 

Lot 4

(Coloured green on plan)

A very Valuable Plantation and Game Covert situated on the Newcastle Road (A.5011 Linley forming the well-known,

Swallowmoor Wood (Adjoining Lot 2)

Extending to an Area of 20 acres 3 roods 8 perches or thereabouts. It contains a varied selection of Trees including Oak, Beech, Birch, etc.

 

Schedule

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Diary of Rev. Capt. Cuthbert H. Heath-Caldwell starts here.

 

Saturday 29th October 1949

Diary – The Pound House, Cattistock.

Violet and I returned from Linley Wood yesterday, Friday 28th October . The sale took place on Tuesday at Louis Taylor’s sale room at Hanley; A fairly wet day. In the meeting in the morning Taylor insisted on keeping the reserve below £20,000 and instead to sell as a whole. The Estate was originally about 900 acres. 500 had been sold to pay Death Duties which amounted to £7,000 – Left £5,000 to buy the Pound House and the rest in legal expenses. Sum realised at sale £18,600, as Taylor was terrified we should have the hall left on our hands: and he was probably right. 18 bedrooms and a drive ¾ of a mile long.

 

We drove down in CAA (1937 Ford 8). Stopped for tea a Brixton Deverill and saw Mrs Jones, Vict, Mable and Walter. Dinner at the Ship, Mere. Today picked up the threads – bought another Aladdin oil radiator.

Letters – Cheque for insurance from Knight & Son.

Swallowmore account. Schedule B. (£2) Forwarded to Knight & Son

Letter from Audrey Coutts (nee Barton).

Nobbs bill.

Letter from Miss Wakefield-Richmond about Aphra Behn.

Two DAMC letters.

Odd jobs during day and a short walk

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Friday 4th November 1949

Davies drove me up to Linley Wood. Walked around with Louis Taylor and Peter Taylor and arranged for furniture sale early 1st week in December. Walked up again after lunch and I hope saw the poor old house for the last time.

There is no doubt that I am well rid of an expensive and uncertain ( ruinatious?) liability – but it is pathetic to compare it now with its condition 25 years ago.

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Friday 10 August 1951
Newcastle-under-Lyme Times.

Man of Many Parts
Ploughman, sportsman, councillor, soldier, businessman, benefactor.
These are some of the pages from the full book of life lived by Mr.A.M.('Andy') Cowden, who has just celebrated his 80th birthday at his home in Wesley Ave, Alsager. - - -

Alsager was practically in infancy then, Talke Road was only a cinder path leading from the main station to the station on the Audley branch of the N.S.Railway. Yet the village had become the chief residential place for the principal business people of the Potteries, many of whom erected fine homes here.
It was a spectacular sight in those days, in the early morning, to see the horse-drawn carriages emerging from these residences to take "the Master" to business - usually a pair of beautiful bays or chestnuts in a landau, with groom in full livery. A sight never to be forgotten!

These are just a few of the early residents: Sir Ernest Craig, (Gen) Heath-Caldwell, Sir E.Johnson, Messrs.James, John and Arthur Maddock, W.Y.Craig, the Wilbrahams, W. and H. Adolphus Gross, J.Robinson, M.Hunbach, J.Settle, the Pidducks and the Misses Alsager. - - -

After he was elected to the Alsager Council the ancient custom of 'beating the bounds' was revived, and Andy was one of those who crept through culverts, under bridges and over hedges. He distinguished himself by trying to punt across the Day Green water boundary in a commandeered pig-tub which capsized and caused Andy to complete the course by swimming.

At a halt near Linley Hall a sheet of paper was placed inside a bottle which was thrown into the brook. It was returned to Alsager months later by someone who had found in in the Mersey near Liverpool.

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Friday 12 September 1952
Newscastle-under-Lyme Times
Where Miners Ear £30 a Week. - Conditions Today in USA and Canada
Some impressions of a three months' visit to America and Canada were given to the "Times" this week by Mr.G.A.Forster, managing director of G.A.Forster Ltd, Apedale Sawmills, Chesterton, who returned last week with his wife and family - - -

Pottery
Mr.and Mrs.Forster brough home several samples of Japanese and German pottery, which they said, was flooding the cheaper stores. A character Toby jug, made in Japan, was very similar to those made by a wellknown firm in Burslem. It cost about 7s.

"These people gave us a wonderful reception. They could not do enough for us." said Mrs.Forster. "Mrs.Brittain used to work at Linley Hall, and as I visited the hall a short time ago I was able to tell her how it had changed. "The people who have emigrated from Britain still retain a great pride in our country, although you would be surprised at the number of Americans who really believe we are down and out." added Mr.Forster.

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Friday 18 September 1953
Staffordshire Sentinel

Four Offences
On four summonses relating to a lorry, Michael Patrick Hennessey of Linley Hall, Talke, was fined a total of £1.15s. He pleaded guilty to using a lorry at Lower Mile-house Lane without a driving mirror, failing to exhibit an Excise licence in the prescribed manner; and failing to keep a current record of hours worked. - -

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Wednesday 19 January 1955
Staffordshire Sentinel

A.A. Man Dies after Collision
Following a collision between his motor-cycle combination and a lorry at Stone Rd, Hanford, late yesterday afternoon, Reginald Alfred Wilshaw, 26 years old A.A. patrolman, of Linley Hall, Talke, died in the North Staffordshire Royal Infirmary last night. He had severe head injuries - - -

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Friday 28 January 1955
Newcastle-Under-Lyme Times

A.A.'s First Road Death in this Area
Patrolman did not notice traffic was stopping, says inquest witness
He is the first A.A. patrolman to be killed in this area," Mr.V.Rose, area secretary of the Automobile Association told the City Times after an inquest in Hanley Town Hall on Mr.Reginald Alfred Wilshaw of Linley Hall, Talke. "There are 2,000-3,000 partolmen in the country and they are hardly ever in road accidents," added Mr.Rose. - - - "They are chosen because they are such good fellows; really first class, helpful men," he added. An "Accidental Death" verdict was recorded.

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Tuesday 10 September 1957
Staffordshire Sentinel

Factory Break-in Alleged. - Two for Trial
Charged with together breaking into a Kidsgrove factory and stealing blouses, foodstuffs and cash to the total value of £20, Dennis Roberts, aged 25, and William Monaghan, aged 32, both of Linley Hall, Talke, were committed for trial at the next County Quarter Sessions at Burslem Stipendiary Court yesterday - - - Detective-constable John Ford said there were clear traces in the long grass outside the factory that two people had walked away towards Linley Hall. He recovered some of the stolen property from Robert's flat at the hall, and a further amount from Monaghan's flat. Both men, he alleged, had made statements admitting the offence.

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Friday 4 October 1957
Newcastle-under-Lyme Times.

Talke Youth has "Jekyll and Hyde Personality."
William Frederick Wright, of no fixed address, late of Linley Hall, Talke, pleaded guilty to stealing a shilling and a padlock worth 3s.6d. the property of Ronald Frank Cresay, on September 9 and with obtaining by means of false pretences and with intend to defraud, £4 from Mrs.Violet Hodgkinson, on September 16. - - -

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Friday 1 July 1960
Staffordshire Sentinel
Rider Fined £10
Pleading Guilty at Burslem Magistrates Court, Douglas Stanyer, of No.16 Flat, Linley Hall, Talke, was fined £4 for driving a motor-cycle without a licence and £6 for having no insurance against third party risks.

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Friday 23 September 1960
Staffordshire Sentinel

Exceeding Limit
For exceeding the speed limit in a car in Liverpool Road, Newcastle, and for not having a current excise licence, Peter Thomas of Flat 8, Linley Hall, Talke, was fined a total of £4 at Newcastle Magistrates Court yesterday. He wrote admitting the offence.

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Wednesday 26 October 1960
Newcastle-under-Lyme Times.

Prison for Pigeon Theft
A 23 year old former Tunstall steel erector, Arthur Frost, now living a Linley Hall, Talke Pits, was sent to prison for six months for the theft of seven racing pigeons, valued at £6, owned by William Shone of Tunstall. - - -

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Tuesday 11 April 1961
Birmingham Mail.

Home Trouble - So Not Gaoled
Pleading that he was very worried because his wife had left him, a Jamaican who was alleged to have called two police officers "dogs" and threatened to kill them, was fined a total of £38 for nine offences which he admitted at West Bromwich.
Harold Sylvester Allen (33), railway worker, of Linley Hall, Talke, Stoke-on-Trent, was told by the Stipendiary Mr.H.W.Maitland Coley, that but for his domestic trouble he would have been sent to prison for assaults on the police - - -

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Friday 14 April 1961
Staffordshire Sentinel

Talke Lorry Driver Fined.
A 31 year old lorry driver, Andrew Hollins, of 5 Linley Hall, Talke, was fined £5 at Newcastle Magistrates Court yesterday for driving without due care and attention. He was also fined £2 for not keeping a current record of hours worked. He pleaded Guilty - - -

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Thursday 1 June 1961
Staffordshire Sentinel

Two Remanded on bail on pottery theft charge
A Longton pottery dealer and a pottery worker were remanded on bail until Tuesday when they appeared at Burslem Magistrates Court yesterday on a charge of warehouse-breaking and the theft of £16 19s.9d. worth of pottery from Hardware Supplies (Blythe Bridge) Ltd.
They were John Kenyon, aged 40, the pottery dealer, of Flat 10, Linley Hall, Kidsgrove, and Ronald Newton, aged 34, of 24 Anchor Terrace, Longton. Kenyon also faces a second charge of receiving pottery knowing it was stolen.
Asking for the remand Inspector M.C.Skerratt alleged that the stolen property was found in business premises owned by Kenyon - - -

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Wednesday 17 January 1962
Staffordshire Sentinel

Driver Ignored Light- Fined
For not stopping his car at a red traffic light at Fenton, Selwyn Walter Jones, aged 21, of Flat 14 Linley Hall, Linley-Road, Talke, was fined £7 by Fenton Magistrates yesterday. He pleaded guilty. - - -

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Thursday 21 February 1963
Staffordshire Sentinel

Took Lorry on Spur of Moment
Burslem Magistrates heard from Inspector G.Curran yesterday how a lorry which was found impaled on the stump of an electric lamp standard with the standard lying on the pavement in Scotia Road, Burslem, had been taken from the Tunstall premises of the tile manufacturers, T. and R. Boote Ltd.
Pleading Guilty, John Colclough, aged 30, of Flat 5, Linley Hall, Talke was fined £6 for using a lorry without insurance: £2 for using it without a licence: £3 for taking and driving away a lorry without the owner's consent; and was ordered to pay £3 10s. costs.

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Wednesday 18 September 1963
Newcastle-under-Lyme Times.

Why Search was Called Off
When police and members of a rescue team turned up at a pot hole in the Linley Hall district of Talke, on Saturday of last week, two excited young boys who joined in the search were later to learn they were the persons sought.
Kevin Ashton, aged 13, and his cousin, Arthur Webb, aged 14, had gone into the disused cave to collect giant moths, but their pal, Kenneth Hayward, aged 14, didn't fancy going into the hole. He waited at the entrance.
The more adventurous boys got into difficulty and when Kenneth heard them shout he ran off to raise the alarm. In the meantime, the boys had managed to free themselves - and came out into the daylight to discover that Kenneth was missing. Off they went to find Kenneth, who later returned to the cave with the would-be rescuers. The search was called off. Kevin lives at 10 Higher Ash Road, Talke. His cousin Arthur lives at 66 Oversley Road, Fegg Hayes and Kenneth at 71 St.Michael's Rd, Pittshill.

Dadio (JAHC) warned me about the danger that there were mine shafts around Linley Wood, which could be quite unstable. (MDHC, 2026)

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Wednesday 22 January 1964
Newcastle-under-Lyme Times

Flat Tenants Talk about their Homes
At Kidsgrove a committee recommends closing some 'unfit' habitations
Kidsgrove Urban Council Public Health Committee last week recommended that three of the 17 flats at Linley Hall, Talke, should be closed immediately as being unfit for human habitation.
Counc.J.J.Beech (chairman of the committee) declared:
"From this side of the table we would like to close the place but we have a responsibility to house these people." The action follows a seven-page report from the Chief Public Health inspector, Mr.Norman Roche, who revealed that the total rent from the flats if they were all occupied would amount to over £42 a week - or £2,000 a year.

The hall, once a palatial three-storey mansion off the main trunk road at Talke, stand in a delightful setting surrounded by trees and fields. Mr.Roche said the hall generally had "a neglected appearance" and was "badly in need of repair both externally and internally."

In his report he listed some of the alleged faults which included;
Flat 1, bed sitting room: defective floor and skirting; badly cracked bulged and dangerous ceiling; raining in; damp, uneven and defective wall plaster; missing window sash cords and window catches; perished putty pointing; badly fitted door. Mr.Roche's report revealed that nearly every flat in the hall had faults: the amenities included only five toilets for 17 flats. Mr.Roche said the conditions "justify drastic action." and his first recommendation was "that the possibilities of closure of the premises be carefully considered."
A reporter and a photographer visited the hall on Sunday and met several of the tenants. All those spoken to complained about the conditions but they all agreed that it was the only accommodation they could find in the district.

In flat 3 live Mr.and Mrs.Hugh Kilcullen, with their daughter Linda, son John and six-week-old baby.
They pay £3 a week for the flat which consists mainly of one large room with a partition which divides the living room from a bedroom. Mrs.Kilcullen said they had made the flat quite comfortable apart from the obvious overcrowding, but complained bitterly about the amenities. "There are no taps or sinks in most of the flats so we have to carry water from either the bathroom or one of the taps, then carry out they dirty water to empty away," she explained.

Upstairs, in Flatt II live Mr. and Mrs. Peter King. Mrs.King was just fetching water from a tap in a tiny alcove in which plaster was falling off the walls. "This is where we fetch and empty the water," she said. "I have to fetch it in a baby bath to do the washing," she added. Mrs.King said that residents had another problem. "We have to put a shilling in the meter to get hot water. The meter is in another part of the house and if we don't hurry back to the bathroom someone else draws off the hot water before we can use it." she said.

In Flat 10 live Mr.and Mrs.Laurence Leach and their baby. "We have just got this one room in which to live and sleep. The baby had a cot but we have to make up the settee-bed for sleeping," she said.
Mrs.Leach pointed to the corner of the room where the cooking facilities were arranged. "It's very difficult to cook or to wash here. There's no sink or taps and it is hard work carrying water from one part of the house to the other," she said. Mrs.Leach also pinpointed another problem which the housewives of Linley Hall have to face. "The coalman refuses to come this far out. I don't know why unless it's because of the state of the drive, but it means we have to fetch our own coal," she explained. "I usually go on a Friday night with the baby's pram, but some of them go on Saturdays. It means a couple of miles to the coalman and the same distance back pushing the coal pram all the way."The only way they can last a week without making an extra journey is to light a fire only in the evening. "And it's certainly cold in these damp rooms during the day," she added. 

Mrs.Leach said the furniture jumped about when people walked across the floor.
Line covers gaps in the floor boards but the cracks in the ceiling are bold and ugly. "It rains in here" she said pointing to one crack over the door. Plaster is flaking from walls and ceilings and many damp patches show.

At the rear of the house, to get to two of the three flats recommended for closure it is necessary to go through long dark passages under a glass leanto which has half the roof missing, and across several dilapidated rooms.

Members of the public health committee feel that when a closing order on the three flats is made the owner will meet them and discuss the possibilities of improving the building.
Most members are only sorry that there are not sufficient council houses available to rehouse all the tenants of Linley Hall. The property is owned by Mr.Paul Jervis of Red Street, Chesterton. It is on lease to Mr.J.Jackson of Park Hall, Longton, who when asked said he had no comment.

Photo captions
Few people could have a more impressive address than Linley Hall. But Mrs.Kilcullen, pictured with her son John and daughter Linda, would much rather live on a council estate.

Photo caption
Plaster flakes from the wall in the room where Mrs.Margaret King has to fetch water for all her family needs. The sink also serves as a sluice for dirty water.

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Friday 5 June 1964
Staffordshire Sentinel

Concern over flats at Old Rectory plan.
A Kidsgrove urban councillor, Mr.Arthur Walton, last night expressed concern that the Old Rectory at Talke might become "another Linley Hall" if it were let as flats.

The Planning and Development Committee were again discussing the application from the Lichfield Dilapidation Board -it has been deferred back on two previous occasions - for permission to convert the Rectory into flats.

"If we decide tonight to give permission, we should be assured that it will not turn into another Linley Hall. I want to be absolutely certain about this," said Mr.Walton.
"If not, then we must buy the house ourselves and demolish it." he added. - - - continues - - -

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Friday 6 November 1964
Friday 13 November 1964

Staffordshire Sentinel
With vacant possession.
Kidsgrove, Stoke-on-Trent
South & Stubbs are instructed to sell by Auction (unless previously sold by private treaty) on Monday, November 30th 1964,
At the Caldwell Arms Hotel, Linley, Kidsgrove, at 6.30 o'clock, a valuable Freehold Property known as -
Linley Hall, Kidsgrove.,together with Park and Woodlands, comprising an area of 10 acres 1 rood, 3 perches or thereabouts. Particulars from the Auctioneers. Solicitors: Messrs Knight & Son, Newcastle, Staff. (Tel.69225)

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Friday 27 November 1964
Staffordshire Sentinel

Linley Hall, Kidsgrove.
This property has been Sold and the sale advertised for Novembr 30th is cancelled. South & Stubbs, Auctioneers.

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Wednesday 10 February 1965
Newcastle-under-Lyme Times

One Man's Dream Home
A Talke Pit builder, his wife and three children may this year lave their semi-detached bungalow and move into a Tudor-style mansion - if Staffordshire County Council's planning authority do not shatter their dreams

Bob Dale and his attractive Belgian wife Yvonne are planning to build their fabulous dream home amid 10 acres of woodland and green fields at Linley Hall, near Kidsgrove. So far the county planning authority have recommended refusal of their application to demolish the hall and build a house on the site.

But Kidsgrove Urban Council are prepared to press for a change of heart from county officials and Mr.Dale is all set to fight for permission "right to the end." To most of us castles in the air are no more than pipe dreams which drift away almost as quickly as they are formed. But to Mr.and Mrs.Dale their castle in the air is a five bedroomed mansion o9n a hill, which overlooks one of the most attractive estates in the area and some of the finest scenery in North Staffordshire and South Cheshire. And they are determined not to let it drift away.

On Saturday I visited the once palatial but now derelict Linley Hall which until only a few weeks ago had housed families in conditions which had shocked members of Kidsgrove's public health department.
"Falling Down" Mr. and Mrs.Dale showed me around and pointed out part of the structure which workmen have already had to knock down as a safety measure. "The building is falling down in some parts and the sooner it is demolished completely the better it will be," Mr.Dale explained.

For the last few weeks Mr.Dale has had four men working non-stop clearing the undergrowth which has shrouded the once well-kept gardens. We picked our way through recently cleared paths and woodland walks which led to tree-screened tennis court sites, artistic rockeries and rare shrubs and bushes.
Mrs.Dale explained that some of the shrubs and trees had been replanted so that they could be saved from strangulation from weeds and wild creepers. Her parents, who came from Belgium 18 months ago, will move with them into the proposed large house, and her father, a retired Army officer, is keen to take charge of the gardens.

Beyond Repair

The hall itself is far beyond reprieve. Nearly all the windows are smashed, the frames irrepairable, the masonry crumbling and the woodwork rotting. In August when several families were still living there, they complained about the conditions and were worried by rats which invaded their bedrooms at night.
"The sooner we can get the place knocked down the better," Mrs.Dale said with a shiver when she learned about the rats.

At present the Dale family live in Worcester Close, a cul-de-sac off Chester Road. In the lounge a drawing board with plans for the house takes pride of place. The plans show the Tudor styling which will blend with the scenery and which also dominates the interior decor. The large 46ft by 20ft lounge-cum-dining-room is a sharp contrast with their present normal sized living room, and the house will also include a large kitchen, laundry, certain outbuildings and a two-car attached garage.

"We have been looking for a site on which to build this house a long time." says Mr.Dale, a former civil engineer who worked for some years in Africa before going into the building business in Talke.
"Now that we have found the right site we intend to take all the steps we can to get permission to build" he says.

At last Thursday's Urban Planning and Development Committee Counc. Fred Bowyer said it seemed silly to refuse Mr.Dale's application. "It would be much better to have a nice house there than the present building which has given no end of trouble." he said.
Most people living in the area are likely to share this view. A new Tudor mansion is bound to look much more attractive from the main road than the present derelict building.

The new Linley Hall.

The new Linley Hall. 

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