A STEP back into Atherton's history books was on offer when the area's first place of worship revealed its roots.

Chowbent Chapel opened its doors to the public as part of Heritage Day.

Its history was revealed to visitors by members of the chapel together with its minister, the Rev Peter Hughes.

He said: "The congregation dates back to 1645. It is the first place of worship built in Atherton. Before then people had to travel to Leigh Parish Church.

"There was a very strong Presbyterian feel in the area, and the Presbyterian chapel was built on land owned by Lord Atherton."

However, it was shortly afterwards that the worshippers were driven into praying in secret because of a growing feeling among Parliamentarians that parishioners should only use the Anglican book.

During that time parishioners worshipped in Wharton Hall with the Mort family. The pulpit that was used is still in the possession of the Chapel today.

Further troubles lay ahead in 1715. Jacobites from Scotland were marching South, and the minister of the first chapel, James Woods, took a party to Preston, in which they successfully went to battle.

But in 1721 the then Lord of the Manor, Richard Atherton, a Jacobite himself, came of age and parishioners were ejected from the first chapel.

The present chapel was then built in 1721 and has been there ever since.

It became more liberal during the ensuing years until becoming fully unitarian.

Rev Hughes added: "A lot of people are interested in local history and this gave them a good opportunity to learn about the buildings on their doorstep.

"It was well worth a visit. In previous years people have come on Heritage Day from far and wide. This year we were definitely affected by the fuel crisis.

"As a result most of our visitors were from the area.

"Having such an historic building has its advantages, but it does mean that it needs constant attention , which of course takes money. Anyone able to help us in this is always welcome to get in touch."