THIS week we continue the fascinating story of architect Richard Freeman who has been researched by local historian David Kaye.

David, from Blackrod, describes how Freeman was responsible for the design of various churches and chapels, including Christ Church, Heaton, St Catherine’s Horwich and the school chapel at Rivington.

David says: “Although best known for his work in the north west of England, a notable international accomplishment was the commission he received in 1878 to design St Andrew’s Church in Moscow, the only Anglican place of worship in the Russian capital.

"Thankfully, much of his work locally can still be viewed with pride, but no doubt, looking down from above, Mr Freeman will be saddened to see the last of his trio of Heaton Cemetery chapels disappear, coupled with the fact that the once very attractive East Lodge (also his design) is in a similarly tragic condition — boarded up, and with grossly overgrown gardens.

“Not a very appealing or welcoming sight to visitors accessing the cemetery via the Gilnow Road gate.”

The chapel at Rivington School was dedicated in 1892, and was designed to perpetuate the memory of Frederic Marshall, who died at the tragically early age of 18, while still a boarder at Rivington. The money was donated by Frederic’s parents, Daniel and Ellen Marshall, of the Magee, Marshall brewery.