20. Biddulph Circuit

As a Circuit we have had a separate existence for approximately 60 years, but in some of our villages—Biddulph for one—Primitive Methodism has had a grip for nearly 100 years.

Bemersley—a village under our wing—has no church to boast of, but the building which was the first P.M. Book Room is still there. As no account is likely to be made in the history of the New Methodism of this somewhat sacred spot, stalwart Prims. are advised to stick this paragraph in their family Bibles!

We have 11 churches, eight of which are in an excellent state of preservation. Of these, Biddulph,

Bidduiph Moor, Brown Lees, Brindley Ford and Harriseahead are such attractive structures, that even the Mother Circuit may be envious of them! But the fly in the “ornament” (as said a City Councillor) is the depressing debt on Brown Lees. Over £900 for 40 members is a load. But they are carrying it bravely, and getting rid of a bit here and there. The other churches in the Circuit are: Lask Edge, Brown Edge, Chell Heath, Fegg Hayes, Packmoor and Ridgeway. This last-named Church is the property of Colliery Owners who have graciously allowed our people to worship there for many years without charges or restrictions of any kind.

We have a healthy lot of Sunday Schools—generally well staffed and comprising in all 180 teachers and over 1,500 scholars. 

Our Local Preachers’ staff totals 28. Of these only 11 are available for “any number of appointments,” 10 for a limited number (very limited in some cases), and, 7, by reason of age, affliction, etc., are not available at all. Altogether our preachers are efficient, faithful, and they love their work. Of the preachers who have “passed to the Great Beyond,” Paul Whitehurst and Joseph Stanway will long be remembered as giants in philosophy and oratory respectively. Four ministers in the active ranks have gone from this Circuit, viz., Revs. T. Ellerton, T. & W. Harper and H. Bailey.

The membership up to date is 429. We carry no reserves, but many new members are in, the “offing.” Nineteen years ago, Biddulph Circuit had two Ministers (the writer of these notes being then 2nd Minister) and approximately 450 members. With only one Minister employed to-day, and with the complete disappearance of the “iron and steel” industry from this area, compelling many of our young men to move southwards, we consider our membership as very satisfactory.

With harmony and a good Circuit spirit now prevailing, we feel confident that a future of general Circuit prosperity lies before us.

S.W.B,