A PERMANENT exhibition to one of Middleton’s most famous sons has been officially opened by the Mayor, Councillor Robin Parker.

The photographic display by Middleton-born Andy Marshall showcases the buildings of Edgar Wood and is housed in Long Street Methodist Church.

Funding from the township committee paid for the exhibition, which includes a portable display on the life and work of the famous architect. It is hoped this will be taken into schools and public buildings in the borough so future generations can learn about the great man.

English Heritage and Rochdale Council have also decided to fund a condition survey of all the Wood buildings in the Conservation Area, so the owners of these properties were also invited, as well as council representatives and other conservation bodies. Alan Gardner, who will conduct the survey, gave a talk in which he emphasised the value of Wood’s contribution to architecture, and his national and international importance.

Dr John Archer also spoke, and told how he first came to Middleton in 1948, and was struck by the beauty of some of the buildings he saw here.

He was told that they were by a local architect called Edgar Wood. He got on his bike, his only transport, and began to cycle round the town locating Wood’s buildings. Most of what we know about Edgar Wood today is thanks to his scholarship.

The event also coincided with the start of the Heritage Weekend, and followed the redecoration of the church buildings and roof repairs that have been paid for in part by the Friends of Long Street Methodist Church.