MP goes back in time

Macclesfield’s MP, David Rutley, met up with leading local historian, Dorothy Bentley Smith, to find out more about Macclesfield’s rich heritage and tales from the town’s fascinating past.

Dorothy, who has lived in the town since 1977, has recently had published Past Times of Macclesfield Volume III, following the success of her two previous books in the series, which look back on 1,000 years of local history.

The Past Times series comprise of columns which she wrote for ilovemacc’s own former local newspaper, Macclesfield Community News. She has also written other books on the town, including a biography of Charles Roe, who is credited with bringing the silk industry to Macclesfield.

The latest volume is already out in local bookshops, but fans of Dorothy’s work should not worry once they reach the end of her latest work. Her next book, about a Macclesfield surgeon, is currently awaiting publication, and she has already begun work on a fourth volume of the Past Times series.

Speaking following the meeting, David said, “It was great to meet Dorothy and have a preview of her latest book, which brings Macclesfield’s fascinating history to life. Her books are very popular locally, so it is good to know that her next works will be in the bookshops in the not too distant future. Her dedication to local history is a great public service, and I wish her latest book every success.”