Tributes have poured in for Alan Bacon, a valued member of the Tameside History Forum and Friends of Ashton Parish Church.

Alan was born in Dukinfield in 1939 but became attached to Ashton Parish Church after his marriage.

He served on the Parish Council for many years and was very active in promoting the church and preserving its history.

He led many of the tours during Heritage Open Days when his comprehensive knowledge of the history and fabric of the church was evident.

Thanks to his enthusiasm, many people were given the opportunity to experience the wonderful old building.

His work with the Friends of Ashton Parish Church led him to the Local History Forum where he represented them. He made a valuable contribution to the Forum’s development and could always be relied on to support HODs.

His historical and heraldic knowledge were invaluable to the Forum and to Tameside Local Studies and Archives service.

Through his efforts the Friends made a financial contribution to the conservation of the 1857 Parish Boundary Book (PR/ASH/3), held at Tameside Local Studies and he was the instigator of the recent transfer of documents from the Parish Chest.

Some tributes to Alan from Forum members include:

“Alan worked so hard for Ashton Parish church (Brian Hartley, Church Preservation Society)

“A good friend to all and a loyal supporter of the Forum, will be sadly missed.” (Julie Fisher)

“An expert historian about the Church.” (Jill Cronin)

“Alan will be fondly remem- bered as a kind, thoughtful, supportive gentleman willing to share his knowledge. He was always first to offer support at Heritage Open Days for the Forum and to pass on his knowledge about the church’s history including tours up the tower,” (Christine Clough, Secretary Local History Forum)

“Alan’s helpfulness, knowledge and willingness to liaise between the Church and the Local Studies and Archives service will be very much missed. His efforts have led to an important deposit of documents which can now be made more widely available.” (Tameside Local Studies and Archives).

Alan sadly passed away last month aged 82. His funeral service was held earlier this month.

Read more from the Tameside Reporter

Click here for more of the latest news

Click here to read the latest edition of the paper online

Click here to find out where you can pick up a copy of the paper