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The weird and wonderful history of South Ribble

Ye Olde Hobb Inn

South Ribble is laden with a rich tapestry of history. Whether it's our industrial contribution or the religious significance of the area, South Ribble has a lot to take credit for in the history books.

What's lesser known is South Ribble's more unique history and tales from a time gone by.

Like anywhere with a tight-knit community, stories have been passed around for centuries about things that happened in the places we stand.

From the tales referenced on restaurant walls to the ones stitched into history, this is the weird and wonderful history of South Ribble!


Battle of Bamber Bridge

The 'Battle of Bamber Bridge' famously took place at Ye Oldé Hob Inn in June 1943. The pub, that is still very much a centrepiece of the community in Bamber Bridge, hosted a significant number of American troops who were based in the area.

During the War American troops were segregated based on race, so when drinking in the same pub, a brawl took place between black American troops and white military police. The fight broke out between the two sets of soldiers, causing a ruckus and later gunfire exchange. One person died as a result of the violence with several others injured.

According to writer Anthony Burgess, the people of Bamber Bridge supported the black troops in the altercation, with all three local pubs posting 'Black Troops Only' signs.


Oliver Cromwell and Walton-le-Dale

A similar piece of unique, if not slightly more ambiguous history is the visit of Oliver Cromwell to a Walton-le-Dale restaurant.

The site of Pinocchio's also proved popular with former ruler of Britain Oliver Cromwell.

During the 17th century, what we now know as Pinocchio's was 'The Unicorn Inn' and it played host to Parliamentary troops during the English Civil War. When leading his troops to victory in the battle of Preston, Cromwell took rest there and wrote his despatches.


The Sir Loin

Sticking with visiting rulers enjoying their stay in South Ribble, have you heard the tale of the Sirloin Steak and Hoghton Tower?

If the legend is to be believed, the previous King Charles - King Charles II - enjoyed a loin of Beef he ate at Hoghton Tower so much, he knighted it, proclaiming 'A noble joint! By St. George, it shall have a title!'.

It's said the King then drew his sword and knighted the meat, saying 'Loin, we dub thee knight; henceforward be Sir Loin!'.

The likelihood is the name translates from the French word 'surlonge', meaning a prime cut of beef, but it's nowhere near as interesting.

You can take part in a ceremony where you can live the *historic event at Hoghton Tower, so you can live your royal dreams.


Do you know of any other historic events that have taken place in South Ribble? Let us know on Facebook or Instagram.

 

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