Links in a Chain - the Mayors of Bolton
Links in a Chain - The Mayors of Bolton
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Richard Matthews

Mayor of Farnworth: 1952-53 (Labour)

Born: William Street, Farnworth 1 September 1899

Died: London 2 October 1963

Educated: St Peter's Day School, Farnworth

Agent for Co-operative Insurance.

Son of Richard Matthews, Chairman of Kearsley Urban District Council 1937-38, 1948-49.

He worked for a farmer and butcher as a youth and then underground at Spindle Point Colliery. He also worked at Cocker's Builders of Walkden before becoming a Cooperative Insurance Agent in 1958.

He was an active member of the Cooperative movement for 25 years and was appointed President of Farnworth and Kearsley Cooperative Society in 1943.

Represented South West Ward 1945. Alderman for North West Ward 1957-61.

He served on the local authority for 16 years and was Chairman of several Committees at different periods after serving on all of them.

During his term of office as Chairman there was a Civic Reception for Kathleen Mayoh, who swam the channel. The Mayor and Mayoress met her at London Road Station, Manchester on her return and 10,000 people lined the route into Farnworth. 

He also met Field Marshal Montgomery who visited Farnworth in 1952.

Chairman of the Governors of Farnworth Grammar School.

Anglican. He worshipped at St Peter's, Farnworth and was a member of the choir for 25 years and Sunday School Secretary. He was a member and Treasurer of the managing body of St Peter's Primary School. He was also a former manager of St James C of E Primary School.

His wife, Charlotte Elizabeth, was Mayoress.

Died while attending a Co-operative conference in London.

 

Click for larger image Richard Matthews as Mayor of Farnworth with Field Marshal Viscount Montgomery of Alamein being taken on of a tour of Mather & Platt's foundry in Farnworth by Albert Bradley Morgan.

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Click for larger image Badge presented to Richard Matthews as Past Mayor of Farnworth Municipal Borough Council.

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Richard MatthewsMatthews Family Tree • pdf

 

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