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Longridge is a market town and civil parish in the borough of Ribble Valley in Lancashire, England. It is situated 8 miles (13 km) north-east of the city of Preston, at the western end of Longridge Fell, a long ridge above the River Ribble. The nearest villages are Grimsargh, 2 miles (3 km) to the southeast, and Ribchester 4 miles (6 km) to the southeast. The parish of Longridge had a population of 7,546 recorded in the 2001 census,[2] increasing to 7,724 at the 2011 Census.[1]

Key Information

History

[edit]

Longridge initially developed outwards from an area around St. Lawrence's Church, at the boundary of the townships of Dilworth and Alston and to the south of the modern-day town centre. Though there was a thoroughfare called 'Market Place', there was no development around that area. Most of the development of the town occurred after 1800.[3] After this time, development occurred at a much faster pace, with expansion northwards including a mill to the north of Kestor Lane.

The demand for stone from Longridge's quarries led to the opening of the Preston and Longridge Railway in 1840 to carry the stone away, for use in such places as Liverpool Docks. The arrival of the railway led to the opening of several cotton mills and the town grew considerably larger from the mid-19th century. The mills and quarries have now all closed, although stone quarried in the town was used to construct the M55 motorway in the 1970s. One of the quarries was used as Longridge motor-racing circuit between 1973 and 1978. Longridge railway station closed to passengers in 1930, and the railway was dismantled in 1967. The station buildings were then used as offices for the parish council until 2010 when the Longridge Town Council began a project to renovate and reopen the buildings to the public with help from the Lottery Heritage Fund. Longridge railway station is now managed by Longridge Social Enterprise Company and is home to a heritage centre, the Old Station Cafe and has various business facilities available.[4]

Governance

[edit]
Former Longridge railway station, now town council offices.

There are three tiers of local government covering Longridge, at parish (town), district and county level: Longridge Town Council, Ribble Valley Borough Council (based in Clitheroe) and Lancashire County Council (based in Preston). The town council has its headquarters in the former Longridge railway station buildings on Berry Lane.[5]

Longridge was historically part of the ancient parish of Ribchester, which contained a number of townships. Longridge straddled the two townships of Alston and Dilworth.[6][7] An ecclesiastical parish of Longridge was created in 1861 covering the whole of the two townships, with the existing chapel of ease of St Lawrence becoming the parish church.[8] The same area was made a local government district called Longridge in 1883, governed by a local board.[9] Such local government districts were reconstituted as urban districts in 1894.[10]

Longridge Urban District Council bought a large Victorian house called The Limes on Berry Lane in 1947 to serve as its headquarters.[11] The urban district was abolished in 1974, becoming part of the new Ribble Valley district. A successor parish was created covering the former urban district, with its parish council taking the name Longridge Town Council.[12]

Community

[edit]

The town is home to eleven pubs, several restaurants, a public library,[13] and a number of primary and high schools. It is also home to an Air Training Corps squadron [14] and an Army Cadet Force detachment.[15] Longridge parish is also the location of Alston Hall, a residential adult education college operated by Lancashire Adult Learning. The local football club, Longridge Town F.C., has two senior teams and plays in the NWCFL, at Step 5 of the FA Football Pyramid. Its ground and clubhouse are situated off Inglewhite Road, behind the Alston Arms. As of 2011, Longridge had its own monthly farmers' market but has now stopped.[citation needed]

The Anglican church of St. Lawrence is located on Lower Lane and the Anglican church of St. Paul is located on Church Street.[16]

Sport

[edit]

Longridge Golf Club is located on Forty Acre Lane on Longridge Fell. Additionally, Longridge Town F.C. is located along Inglewhite Road, as you exit the north of Longridge.

Media

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Local news and television programmes are provided by BBC North West and ITV Granada. Television signals are received from the Winter Hill TV transmitter. [17]

Local radio stations are BBC Radio Lancashire, Heart North West, Smooth North West, Capital Manchester and Lancashire, Greatest Hits Radio Lancashire and Central Radio North West, a community-based station. [18]

The Lancashire Telegraph is the local newspaper that covers the town. [19]

Notable people

[edit]
John Farnworth, 2011

Sport

[edit]

Arms

[edit]
Coat of arms of Longridge
Notes
Originally granted to Longridge Urban District Council on 12 April 1954.[23]
Crest
Upon a Rock proper a Bull passant Argent resting the dexter forehoof upon a Shuttle erect Or.
Torse
A wreath Or and Purpure.
Escutcheon
Per chevron Or and Vert on a chevron Sable between in chief two roses Gules barbed and seeded Proper and in base an eagle's leg erased of the first three bars Argent.
Motto
Sow For Posterity

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Longridge

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Longridge is a and in the borough of , , perched on a prominent hilltop ridge that provides panoramic views over the surrounding countryside. Located approximately 8 miles (13 km) northeast of Preston at the western edge of Longridge Fell, it functions as the primary shopping and for the local farming community, featuring a diverse array of independent shops, antique galleries, and traditional markets. As of the 2021 census, the parish had a population of 8,282 residents, reflecting steady growth from its historical roots in and quarrying. The town's development began over 500 years ago as a modest settlement clustered around the medieval St Lawrence's Church on Chapel Hill, where farming formed the economic backbone for centuries. During the , Longridge experienced significant industrial expansion driven by its abundant local quarries, which supplied stone for major projects across and beyond, transforming the area into a bustling center of manual labor and trade. This quarrying heritage is still evident in the landscape, with remnants of old workings dotting the fell, while the town's economy has since shifted toward retail, tourism, and services, bolstered by its proximity to the . Today, Longridge is celebrated for its community-oriented atmosphere and outdoor recreational opportunities, including trails along and access to the Ribble Valley's scenic paths, attracting visitors seeking a blend of rural charm and urban convenience. The town maintains a strong sense of local identity through events like its annual agricultural shows and markets, underscoring its role as a vital cultural and economic anchor in northwest .

Geography and Demographics

Location and Topography

Longridge is a situated approximately 8 miles (13 km) north-east of Preston in the borough of , . It occupies the western end of Longridge Fell, a prominent geological feature that extends eastward as part of the Bowland Fells range. The town lies above the River Ribble valley, contributing to its elevated position within a landscape characterized by rolling hills and rural vistas. The precise geographic coordinates of Longridge are 53.8317°N 2.6035°W, corresponding to the grid reference SD606374. Topographically, the town is positioned on a rising from the surrounding lowlands, with an average elevation of around 106 meters (348 ft) in its central areas, though parts of the adjacent fell reach up to 350 meters (1,148 ft). The immediate surroundings include expansive farmland to the south and west, interspersed with wooded areas and moorland, while the higher slopes of Longridge Fell feature outcrops and former sites. The town borders the , with Longridge Fell marking the southernmost extension of this protected landscape, offering panoramic views across the and beyond. The of Longridge encompasses an area of 13.28 square kilometers (1,328 hectares), bounded by natural features such as the fell ridge to the east and the River Ribble to the south. It adjoins the civil parishes of Ribchester to the south-east and Grimsargh to the north-west, with the limits reflecting a mix of urban development along the main roads and open countryside elsewhere.

Population Statistics

The population of Longridge, a in the district of , , has experienced modest but consistent growth over recent decades, reflecting broader trends in rural communities. The 2001 recorded 7,546 residents in the parish, a figure that rose to 7,724 by the 2011 , representing an increase of approximately 2.4%. By the 2021 , the population had further grown to 8,282, marking an annual growth rate of about 0.7% from 2011 to 2021. This expansion is attributed in part to ongoing housing developments, including projects completed in the early 2020s and proposed expansions for up to 250 new homes announced in 2025, which are expected to sustain population increases into the mid-2020s. Population density in Longridge remains relatively low compared to urban areas in , standing at approximately 591 per square kilometer (1,532 per ) as of the 2011 Census, based on the parish's area of roughly 13 square kilometers. Updated calculations using 2021 Census figures yield a density of about 623 per square kilometer (1,614 per ), underscoring the town's semi-rural character while accommodating gradual residential expansion. Demographically, Longridge is predominantly family-oriented, with a significant proportion of households consisting of couples with dependent children or multi-generational families. The median age in was 42 years, higher than the national average of 39, indicating an aging population typical of rural English parishes; recent data from the for the broader district shows this median rising to 48 years, a trend likely mirrored in Longridge due to lower birth rates and net inward migration of working-age families drawn by initiatives. These projects, such as the 2022 launch of new affordable units by local housing associations, have introduced a modest influx of younger households, helping to balance the age structure. Ethnically, the population is overwhelmingly homogeneous, with over 98% identifying as in the —a figure of 98.3% when including categories. The 2021 reflects a slight diversification, with 97.4% (including 95.8% ) and small increases in other groups, such as Asian (0.7%) and Mixed (1.3%), totaling non-White residents at about 2.6% or 217 individuals. This minor shift is linked to recent migrations facilitated by housing developments and proximity to larger urban centers like Preston.

History

Early Settlement and Growth

Longridge originated as a small agricultural village during the medieval period, with its earliest recorded evidence tied to the surrounding area of Ribchester in the of 1086. The township of Dilworth, encompassing parts of what became Longridge, was listed as "Bileuurde" in the of , held by of and assessed at one of land, indicating a modest rural settlement focused on arable farming and pastoral activities. Longridge itself was not separately enumerated but formed part of the Ribchester parish, a chapel-of-ease district approximately four to five miles distant, suggesting sparse population and reliance on nearby ecclesiastical centers for religious and administrative needs. A key landmark in the settlement's development was the construction of St. Lawrence's Church in the early , serving as a chapel to Ribchester's St. Wilfrid's and anchoring life amid the agrarian . The church, dedicated on with a for its maintenance, underwent early rebuilds in and 1784 to accommodate growing congregations, reflecting gradual consolidation of the village around this site after the . By the , Longridge began emerging as a , bolstered by its role in local farming and trade, including exports of besoms to and sales of milk, butter, and beef at Preston markets. Population growth in the late 18th and early 19th centuries stemmed from rural migration, increasing from approximately 1,000 residents in to 1,727 by 1821, as families sought opportunities in and farming. The social structure remained agrarian, dominated by farmers who owned and tilled their land, alongside handloom who supplemented incomes through domestic production, earning around three cuts of 20 shillings fortnightly in the . Notable families, such as the Hothersalls who held local manors since the , exemplified this independent class, managing estates like the 300-acre Hothersall Hall farm. This pre-industrial fabric, supported by the area's elevated ridge providing fertile slopes for cultivation, laid the foundation for Longridge's expansion into the .

Industrial Development and Decline

The industrial development of Longridge accelerated after , driven by the expansion of its quarries and the emergence of milling. The town's high-quality , quarried from Longridge Fell, saw increased demand for in rapidly growing towns, leading to the operation of eight quarries by the early . Cotton production began with the of water-powered mills, transitioning to power exemplified by Stone Bridge Mill, the first such facility in Longridge, which marked the introduction of factory-based . By the mid-19th century, these industries peaked in , with approximately 70% of the local workforce engaged in and 20% in stone extraction, fueling significant . The Preston and Longridge Railway, authorized in 1836 and opened in 1840, was pivotal to this boom, primarily built as a horse-drawn tramway to transport quarried stone from Tootle Heights Quarry to Preston for broader distribution. Converted to steam operation in 1856 and connected to the main line in 1886, it facilitated the shipment of both stone and cotton goods, supporting the mills' expansion. Passenger services ceased in 1930, but freight continued until the line's full closure in 1967, after which much of the route was repurposed as a public footpath. Industrial decline set in during the , with quarries largely closing by the due to depleting resources and shifting economic demands, though the last operational site shut down shortly after . Cotton mills followed suit, impacted by global competition and technological changes; for instance, Stone Bridge Mill closed in 1961, and the sector waned further after the railway's end, leading to the shuttering of remaining facilities. One disused quarry at Tootle Heights was briefly repurposed as the Longridge motor racing circuit from 1973 to 1978, hosting short oval-track events before the site's sale for other uses. The legacy of these industries includes both infrastructural and environmental marks on Longridge. Stone from a briefly reopened supplied aggregate for the M55 motorway's in the 1970s, highlighting the material's enduring utility. Quarrying activities scarred the local landscape with deep pits and altered topography, but former sites like Waverhead have been transformed into nature reserves, promoting amid the outcrops.

Governance and Administration

Local Government Structure

Longridge functions as a within the Borough Council, which serves as the district-level authority, and the , which handles county-wide services such as education and highways. The Longridge Town Council operates as the lowest tier of , comprising 12 elected councillors who represent wards within the parish and meet regularly to address community needs. This structure aligns with England's three-tier system for rural areas, where the town council focuses on hyper-local issues while higher tiers manage broader responsibilities. At the national level, Longridge falls within the parliamentary constituency, represented by Maya Ellis of the Labour Party, who has served as since July 2024 following the general election. Locally, town councillors are elected every four years, with the most recent elections occurring in May 2023, ensuring democratic oversight of parish affairs. The town council's leadership includes a , selected annually from among the councillors, who presides over meetings and represents the community in ceremonial roles. The town provides essential services including local consultations, organization of events such as remembrance services and public consultations, and maintenance of public spaces like parks and war memorials. It manages a dedicated , primarily funded through the precept on , to allocate grants to local organizations and fund improvements, with decisions made via standing committees such as the Budget Executive Committee. This process involves public agendas and minutes for transparency, allowing residents to engage in decision-making through meetings and feedback mechanisms. In recent initiatives, the has been involved in consultations for the proposed Longridge Sports Village, a development with planning application to Preston City Council that includes up to 250 affordable homes alongside sports facilities like football pitches and courts on land adjacent to the town football club. This project, led by local developer Steel Work Construction, aims to address housing needs and enhance community sports provision, with public input gathered during October 2025 exhibitions.

Administrative History

Longridge's administrative roots lie in the medieval era, when the area fell within the of , a historic subdivision encompassing lands north of the River Ribble. The settlement emerged as a small farming community around St Lawrence's Chapel, serving as an ecclesiastical chapelry dependent on the ancient parish of Ribchester, with records of baptisms and burials dating back to 1760 under Ribchester's oversight. During the , administrative independence grew alongside population and industrial expansion. The chapelry was elevated to a distinct in 1861, centered on St Lawrence's Church. Civil governance advanced with the establishment of a district in 1883 under the , forming a local board to manage sanitation and local affairs; this entity transitioned into the Longridge Urban District Council in 1884. The Local Government Act 1894 formalized Longridge as an urban district, incorporating the townships of Alston and Dilworth, which had previously lain within the Preston Rural Sanitary District since the 1870s. The urban district encompassed 3,285 acres and governed independently until the mid-20th century. The 20th century brought major restructuring through national reforms. Under the Local Government Act 1972, Longridge Urban District was dissolved on April 1, 1974, with its territory integrated into the newly formed within County. Concurrently, Longridge was designated a , empowering a council—later elevated to status—to address community-level administration, marking the shift to the modern borough system.

Economy

Historical Industries

Longridge's economy in the was dominated by stone quarrying, which exploited the high-quality from . Quarrying activities dated back to at least the early 1800s, with eight major quarries operating by that period, producing stone used in prominent structures such as Docks and various buildings. Output peaked during the , reaching approximately 30,000 tonnes annually, facilitated by the Preston and Longridge Railway opened in 1840, which enabled efficient export to Preston and beyond. Parallel to quarrying, the industry transitioned from handloom to powered mills in the early , with steam-powered operations emerging after the railway's arrival brought affordable supplies. The first such mill, Stone Bridge Mill on the River Hodder, was established around 1850, marking the shift to factory-based textile production; subsequent mills included Cramp Oak (1851), Victoria (1862), and (1874). By the late , four large cotton mills employed 60-70% of the local workforce, while quarrying accounted for about 20%, together supporting significant from around 1,900 in the early to nearly 3,000 by 1881. This industrial base prompted the construction of worker housing, such as the Club Row cottages built between 1794 and 1804 initially for weavers. The industries were closely interconnected, with local from the quarries used in constructing mills, worker homes, and like itself, creating a symbiotic economic . However, both sectors declined in the 20th century amid national trends, including competition from overseas textiles and economic shifts following ; cotton mills largely ceased operations by mid-century, with only remnants of Stone Bridge and Queens Mills surviving, while the last quarries closed after .

Modern Developments

In the , Longridge's has transitioned toward a service-oriented model, with retail, , and forming the backbone of local . Many residents commute to nearby Preston for work in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and administration, reflecting the town's role as a commuter hub within the . The unemployment rate in the , which encompasses Longridge, stood at approximately 2.0% as of late 2023, lower than broader trends around 2.6% as of mid-2025. Recent housing and infrastructure projects underscore efforts to bolster residential and recreational growth. In 2025, developers proposed up to 250 affordable homes on land northwest of Longridge, bordered by Inglewhite Road, Chipping Lane, and Old Clay Lane, incorporating a sports village with a football pitch, courts, , and a 5km Park Run route to enhance community facilities. Additionally, an eco-friendly development launched in August 2025 in the town center on Neville Street, featuring four high-specification units with solar panels, charging points, and open-plan designs aimed at . Tourism remains a key driver, supported by Longridge's proximity to natural attractions and agricultural heritage. Walking trails on Longridge Fell, part of the , attract hikers with scenic views across the and easy-access paths suitable for families. Local farms contribute to the area's , while the Longridge weekly market on Calder Avenue, held every Thursday, continues to operate actively into 2025, showcasing artisan foods and crafts since the early 2000s. Despite these advancements, Longridge faces challenges including limited manufacturing opportunities, leading to continued economic dependence on Preston for higher-wage jobs. In 2025, proposals emerged to convert Higher College Farmhouse on Road into a small children's home for up to four young residents with emotional or learning needs, highlighting ongoing adaptations in community services amid broader housing pressures.

Transport

Road Infrastructure

Longridge's road network is anchored by the B6243, which runs through the town center and serves as the primary arterial route linking the settlement to Preston approximately 8 miles to the southwest. The A6 , a major north-south corridor, provides essential connectivity from Longridge to Preston via nearby junctions and extends northward toward , facilitating regional travel despite the town's position slightly off the main alignment. Significant infrastructure enhancements in recent decades include the construction of the , which opened in 1975 and utilized high-quality stone quarried from Longridge's local reserves to build its structures. This 12.2-mile route connects Preston to and junctions with the M6, markedly improving access for Longridge residents to the national motorway system and reducing reliance on local roads for longer journeys. As of October 2025, proposals for the Longridge Sports Village development include provisions for enhanced parking facilities to accommodate increased vehicular demand at the adjacent Longridge Town Football Club, alongside improved cycling and pedestrian access to mitigate local congestion. The town's local road system comprises a dense network of narrow rural lanes radiating from the center, supporting agricultural and residential movement in the surrounding countryside. Traffic management measures, such as temporary road closures and diversions, are routinely implemented during market days and community events like the annual Field Day parade to ensure safety and flow in the constrained urban core. Pedestrian and has benefited from the repurposing of the former Preston and Longridge Railway, a 19th-century line originally built for stone transport, into multi-use paths. This conversion, completed in phases following the railway's closure in 1967, now offers car-free routes for non-motorized travel through Longridge and the broader area.

Rail and Public Transport

The Preston and Longridge Railway, opened on 1 May 1840, was initially constructed as a horse-drawn to transport quarried stone from Longridge to Preston. services on the line began in 1841 and continued until 2 June 1930, after which the line served freight until its complete closure on 6 November 1967. The former Longridge station site has since been transformed into a heritage visitor centre, café, and community facility, preserving elements of the railway's history as part of a local trail. Longridge currently lacks an operational railway station, with the nearest facility at Preston railway station, approximately 8 miles to the south. Bus services provide the primary public transport links, including Stagecoach Merseyside and South Lancashire's route 1A, which operates frequent journeys between Longridge and . Additional bus connections to are available via Vision Bus service 5, running through nearby villages several times daily. Community transport schemes supplement these options, with Lancashire County Council's dial-a-ride and volunteer-driven community car services supporting residents in rural areas like Longridge for essential trips such as medical appointments and shopping. In 2025, proposed developments including a new sports village with up to 250 affordable homes incorporate enhanced and walking to promote sustainable local travel. Looking ahead, the Lancashire Local Transport Plan outlines regional rail enhancements, such as extended lines, additional passing loops, and improved station capacities, which could potentially benefit connectivity to communities like Longridge through better integration with existing networks.

Community and Culture

Education and Schools

Longridge provides through several institutions, including Longridge St Wilfrid's Roman Catholic Primary School and . Longridge St Wilfrid's, a in the Diocese of , serves children aged 4 to 11 and has an enrollment of approximately 200 pupils across seven classes. Similarly, , also , caters to a comparable age range with around 197 pupils, emphasizing high standards in within a supportive environment. Secondary education in Longridge is served by two local coeducational schools for pupils aged 11 to 16: St Cecilia's RC High School and Longridge High School. St Cecilia's, a voluntary aided under the Diocese of Salford, focuses on high academic standards rooted in Gospel values and received a "Good" rating from in January 2025. Longridge High School, an converter that officially opened in October 2023, promotes excellence and ambition in a setting, with a capacity of 859 pupils. While some pupils from the area may opt for schools in nearby Preston, both institutions meet local demand without the need for extensive travel. Further education opportunities in Longridge historically centered on Alston Hall, a Victorian Gothic converted into an by in 1974, offering day, evening, and residential courses for adults of all ages to support and . The facility provided training tied to local industries, including skills relevant to the area's quarrying heritage. The facility operated until its closure by in December 2015, after which it was sold for private use; a fire damaged the building in March 2017. As of 2025, Alston Hall no longer functions as a dedicated college, with community courses now accessed through broader provisions or nearby facilities. In response to population growth from housing developments, approved expansions for educational capacity in Longridge, including an increase at Longridge High School to accommodate an additional 30 Year 7 pupils starting in September 2024, and permanent additions at primary schools in the Longridge planning area. These measures address rising pupil numbers driven by local birth rates and new residential builds, ensuring sufficient places without straining existing infrastructure.

Religion and Community Facilities

Longridge features several historic and active religious sites that serve as central hubs for the local community. St Lawrence's Church, an Anglican church dating to the early 16th century, was originally established as a to St Wilfrid's in Ribchester to serve the residents of Dilworth and Alston. The church, located on Chapel Hill, continues to host regular worship services and community gatherings as part of the united of St Lawrence with St Paul. St Paul's Church, a more modern Anglican structure built in the off Berry Lane, complements these efforts by offering contemporary services, including Holy Communion and children's activities, and livestreaming events to reach a broader audience. St Wilfrid's Roman Catholic Church, constructed in the Gothic Revival style between 1880 and 1886 by Preston architect William Withnell on Derby Road, provides a focal point for Catholic worship and has been a key contributor to the area's religious landscape since its opening. These churches actively host community events, fostering social connections through initiatives organized by Churches Together in Longridge and District, such as lunches, harvest meals, and participation in local festivals like the Longridge Field Day and Goosnargh & Longridge . For instance, St Lawrence with St Paul regularly organizes seasonal fairs, including Fairs and Winter Fairs, which draw residents for family-oriented activities and fundraising. Such events underscore the churches' role in supporting cohesion beyond religious services. Beyond religious sites, Longridge offers a range of community amenities that enhance daily life and social interaction. The town supports approximately 11 pubs and restaurants, including establishments like the Towneley Arms, Bull & Royal, and Corporation Arms, which serve as informal gathering spots for locals and visitors. The on Berry Lane, managed by , provides access to books, facilities, and digital services such as e-books and online resources, while also hosting community activities like warm spaces and reading programs. In 2025, Longridge House, a former country house hotel originally built in the , underwent a major refurbishment and reopened as a boutique venue capable of hosting private and community events, including celebrations and gatherings. Additional facilities bolster the town's communal infrastructure. The Longridge Civic Hall, opened in 1973 on Calder Avenue, functions as a versatile village hall accommodating up to 300 people for events such as markets, concerts, and parties, complete with ample parking and modern amenities. Adjacent areas, including the site of the former railway station next to the Towneley Arms, host the Longridge Artisan Market, featuring local produce, crafts, and foods on a regular basis to support farmers and vendors. In April 2025, plans for a £100,000 revamp of Towneley Garden, funded by the Shared Prosperity Fund, were announced. The project aims to introduce new stone surfaces, seating, picnic tables, and planters to create an enhanced public events space; as of November 2025, the work is ongoing. These facilities collectively act as vital social hubs, organizing events that promote engagement and well-being. The maintains a detachment in Longridge, where young people aged 12 and above participate in skill-building activities, community outreach like collections at local stores, and regional challenges, contributing to youth development within the town's network of amenities.

Sport and Leisure

Football and Local Clubs

Longridge Town F.C. was established in 1996 through the amalgamation of the town's two primary clubs, Longridge United (formed in 1929) and Longridge St. Wilfrid's (with roots in the ), aiming to elevate local football standards. The club began competing in the Preston & District League, where it secured the Third Division title in the 2003–04 season and won the First Division title in 2007–08, progressing to the Premier Division in 2008–09. It then joined the League in 2009–10, achieving promotion as Division One champions in 2011–12 (scoring 91 goals) and claiming the Premier Division title in 2016–17. In 2018–19, Longridge Town entered the (NWCFL) Division One North, winning the championship with a record 144 goals and the highest average attendance of 177, which promoted them to the Premier Division, where they continue to compete at step 5 of the English non-league pyramid. The team plays its home matches at the Mike Riding Ground on Inglewhite Road, a facility supporting both senior and reserve sides. The club has experienced notable success in cup competitions, including runs in the ; in the 2019–20 season, they reached the fifth round proper after several victories, including over (5–2 in the first qualifying round), before losing 0–1 after extra time to Hebburn Town. Subsequent campaigns have seen further progress, such as reaching the first qualifying round in 2024–25 before elimination by . These achievements underscore Longridge Town's growing competitiveness in regional . Complementing the senior team, Longridge Town Juniors, also founded in 1996, operates as a grassroots organization with 22 teams across various age groups for both boys and girls, serving over 300 young members and emphasizing inclusive participation. The juniors play at Mardale Road and include dedicated girls' sections, such as under-11 teams, fostering community leagues and development pathways that feed into the senior club. This structure promotes high youth involvement in football, with programs designed to build skills and teamwork from an early age. Local football facilities center on existing pitches like the Mike Riding Ground, but upgrades are planned through the proposed Longridge Sports Village, a 2025 development initiative adjacent to the club's site. The project, currently in consultation as of October 2025, includes a full-sized floodlit football pitch for matches and training, two seven-a-side junior pitches with changing rooms, and enhanced spaces tailored for Longridge Town F.C. Juniors, aiming to boost community access and integration with existing operations. These enhancements will support increased participation, particularly among youth, by providing modern infrastructure for local leagues and training.

Golf and Outdoor Activities

Longridge Golf Club, situated on the slopes of Longridge Fell in Lancashire, England, traces its origins to the late 19th century through its association with the Preston Cycling Club, with formal golf activities beginning by 1892 on a nine-hole course at Broad Fall in Scorton. The club relocated to its current location on Longridge Fell and expanded to an 18-hole layout by 1971, following the acquisition of additional land from the Derby Estate, resulting in a par-71 course measuring approximately 5,886 yards with elevation changes up to 1,000 feet. Renowned for its scenic panoramas overlooking the Ribble Valley and Forest of Bowland, the course features tight fairways, crosswinds, and undulating terrain that challenge players while offering 360-degree views extending toward the Lake District and Bowland Fells on clear days. The club has hosted various championships, including early events tied to cycling luminaries like Sandy Sellars, the English and Great Britain One Mile Champion in 1885, who became its first honorary life member. Outdoor pursuits in Longridge emphasize the natural landscape of Longridge Fell and surrounding areas, with well-maintained walking trails providing access to panoramic hilltop vistas and woodland paths. A popular 6.2-mile loop trail via Jeffrey Hill ascends the fell's southern , offering moderate difficulty with an average completion time of about 2 hours 51 minutes and elevations reaching 1,148 feet, ideal for seeking solitude amid heather moorland and gritstone outcrops. Cycling enthusiasts utilize disused railway lines, such as the former Preston and Longridge Railway, now converted into a safe, traffic-free path linking Longridge to Preston and providing picturesque routes along the with minimal gradients suitable for families and commuters. The area's proximity to the , just to the north and east, facilitates extended hiking excursions into this protected moorland and river valley, where circular routes from Longridge explore ancient tracks and wildlife habitats within a 5- to 9-mile range. Angling opportunities abound in the local waterways, including the River Ribble and its tributaries like Savick Brook, which flows westward from Longridge's outskirts toward Preston, supporting populations of , , and coarse fish. Local clubs such as the Ribblesdale Angling Association manage stretches of the Ribble and Hodder for , with day tickets available for a 2.5-mile section near Slaidburn emphasizing catch-and-release practices to sustain stocks. Nearby reservoirs, including those at Dilworth and Spade Mill, offer additional stillwater angling for species, accessible via bank fishing on controlled waters. Community-led events enhance these activities, with weekly 5k parkruns available nearby in Preston since the early 2010s, drawing Longridge residents for inclusive timed runs in Avenham and Parks. In 2025, developments include the proposed revamped Towneley Garden events space with improved paths and seating to boost outdoor gatherings and connectivity to fell trails, alongside a £100,000 on Kestor Lane, opened in spring 2025, for skills practice.

Media

Local Newspapers and Publications

The primary local newspaper serving Longridge is the Lancashire Telegraph, a daily publication owned by Media Group that provides extensive coverage of community news, events, and developments in the area, including Longridge-specific stories such as local council decisions and resident concerns. The Longridge & News and Advertiser functions as a dedicated community-focused outlet, delivering targeted reporting on town matters like business updates, school achievements, and neighborhood issues for residents in Longridge and nearby villages. Historically, 19th-century regional newspapers such as the Preston Guardian and Preston Chronicle extended their reach to Longridge, documenting key local events related to the quarrying industry during the town's stone boom. These publications captured the social and industrial fabric of the area, reflecting Longridge's role in supplying high-quality stone for regional infrastructure projects. Distribution of these materials includes both print editions, often available as free community sheets at local shops and markets, and robust online platforms that emphasize town events such as the annual and seasonal markets. In 2025, local coverage has highlighted ongoing debates over housing developments and the proposed Longridge Sports Village, with public consultations drawing significant community input.

Broadcasting and Online Media

Longridge receives comprehensive coverage from , the regional station that broadcasts , , , and events across the county, including reports on town-specific incidents such as road closures and gatherings. The station's programming, aired on 95.5 FM and 103.9 FM, features dedicated segments on life, with Longridge occasionally highlighted in discussions of affairs. Complementing this, Ribble FM serves as a key station for the area, including Longridge, broadcasting 24/7 on 106.7 FM with a focus on , music, and resident-contributed content about town events like agricultural shows and charity drives. Launched as a non-profit initiative, it emphasizes involvement, offering programs that spotlight Longridge's cultural activities and emergency updates. Regional television coverage is provided by BBC North West, whose evening bulletin North West Tonight on regularly includes stories from Longridge, such as development proposals and local accidents. The BBC's online platform further extends this with dedicated topic pages aggregating news articles on the town, ensuring accessible digital access to broadcasts. Online media in Longridge thrives through community-driven platforms, with sites like We Love Longridge offering updates on local businesses, events, and council announcements, functioning as a digital hub for residents. Forums and discussion spaces are prominent on , particularly groups such as "Longridge Group" and "Your Longridge," which boast thousands of members sharing real-time information on community matters. These groups have been instrumental in 2025, facilitating discussions and participation in online consultations for major developments, including a proposed sports village.

Notable People

Sports Figures

John Farnworth, born on 18 January 1986 in , , is a prominent professional football and entertainer. Growing up in nearby Preston, he initially trained as a footballer in the youth academy of Preston North End before transitioning to in his mid-teens. Farnworth has achieved international recognition, winning both the World Freestyle Football Championship and the titles. He holds multiple , including for the most around-the-world football tricks in one minute and the highest football juggle while climbing a mountain, accomplished during an ascent of . Farnworth's career includes extensive global performances and tours, showcasing his skills at events across , , and Asia, such as freestyle demonstrations in and training sessions in . His work extends to motivational appearances and skill workshops that promote football freestyle among young athletes in the UK. Will Hayhurst (born 24 February 1994) is an English-born Irish professional footballer who plays as a winger. Born in Longridge, he has represented the Republic of Ireland at youth international level and played for clubs including Cork City and Dundalk in the League of Ireland. In Longridge's local sports scene, figures like Liam Atkinson represent emerging talents associated with Longridge Town F.C. Atkinson, a young striker who joined the club in 2024 from the East Lancashire League, has quickly become a prolific goalscorer, contributing significantly to the team's attacking play in the North West Counties League. Other local athletes from the club's history, including long-serving players who helped establish its foundations after its 1996 formation through the merger of Longridge St Wilfrid's and Longridge United, have played key roles in building the community's football legacy.

Arts and Other Notables

Longridge has been home to several individuals who have made significant contributions to , particularly in music, as well as to local industry and community cultural initiatives. One of the most prominent figures is the Ernest Tomlinson (1924–2015), who spent his later years in the town after relocating there for its serene environment conducive to creative work. Tomlinson was renowned for his compositions, including orchestral suites and themes for programs, which captured the charm of English landscapes and folk traditions. His works, such as the English Folk Dance Suite, were frequently broadcast on and television, bringing widespread recognition to his melodic and evocative style. Christina Chong (born 18 September 1983) is a British actress and singer of Chinese and English descent. Raised in Longridge after moving there as a child, she is known for roles including Kara/Me in (2017), the Keeper in (2009), and La'An Noonien-Singh in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds (2022–present). Tomlinson's influence extended beyond his compositions to local community efforts; as a patron of the Longridge Band, one of the UK's oldest brass bands established in 1845, he supported its performances and even had his music featured in town celebrations. This involvement helped inspire grassroots arts groups in Longridge, including amateur music ensembles and cultural events that draw on the town's heritage to foster creative expression among residents. In addition to artistic notables, Longridge's history includes influential industrialists whose entrepreneurial efforts shaped the area's economic and cultural landscape. Thomas Fleming, a 19th-century quarry owner often called "the father of the quarry masters," played a pivotal role in developing the local stone industry by promoting the 1840 gravity railway to Preston, which was later converted to steam power in 1848, enabling efficient export of Longridge fell stone used in prestigious buildings like Preston and Lancaster town halls. Similarly, George Whittle, an industrialist who arrived in 1838, established Stone Bridge Mill in 1850 as the town's first steam-powered weaving shed, advancing the cotton trade and providing employment that supported community growth. These figures, while primarily business leaders, contributed to Longridge's cultural fabric through their patronage of local facilities and initiatives that later influenced arts and leisure activities. Charles Anselm Bolton (1863–1922) was an English Catholic priest, author, and journalist born in Longridge. Educated abroad, he became a Benedictine and wrote extensively on Catholic topics, including biographies and historical works. Irene Reid, MBE (born 1940 or 1941), is a British school crossing patrol officer (lollipop lady) from Longridge, recognized as the UK's longest-serving in the role. She worked for 56 years outside Longridge C of E Primary School, starting in 1969, and retired in September 2025.

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