Runcorn Memories: Family search shows history on the water

Bob writes: "Every now and again I still encounter potentially new links with the Ratcliffes throughout Runcorn and I am hoping to get in touch with any of these probable relatives.

"Those who have lived in Runcorn for many years may have some recollection of our clan which has been largely involved with the sea and river and canal trades, in many cases working out of the Old Quay yard.

"I have traced my direct line back to 1796 (my great, great, great grandfather Richard) and have had some success in discovering distant uncles and cousins.

"My grandfather George (1914-84) worked for many years on the Manchester Ship Canal tugs and both his father Frederick (1869-1917) and grandfather William (1829-1890) were also mariners who spent many years on the canals and rivers in the area.

"My father Ian and his brothers Harry (whose mate Brian Janion has helped me in my research) and David are also mariners.

"In addition to these, there are many others in the town, including those Ratcliffes who lived in Cavendish Street, then Shaw Street and later Laburnum Grove (an aunt Molly and her children, Robert, Pam, Keith and David whose connection to the family I am not all clear about) but I have had some help from David Buckle about this following a recent article in your column.

"There is also the branch of the family from Shaw Street and Jackson's Lane, which includes my cousins, Brian and Elaine.

"I also know my grandfather spoke of the Whites and Clarkes of Dukesfield as cousins of ours. And I have since befriended local boatbuilder Ron Turner whose wife Hazel's (nee White) aunt married a Bill Ratcliffe. Thus, I know this shows a family connection to the White family but I have no idea who Bill was in relation to us."

"As well as the aforementioned people, I can also remember a Ratcliffe who lived at the top of our road, Kirkstone Crescent, on the corner of Wenlock Road.

If any Ratcliffe, White or Clarkes (or anyone else for that matter) reading this would. like to share details of family history I would be very grateful.'

Bob can be contacted at 12 Rampart Row, Gosport, Hampshire, PO12 IHT or on email , Tel: 02392 368 411 (mobile 07720 839 874).

Incidentally, Bob hopes that he will soon have an expanded set of works on local ship and boat builders which he hopes to send to Runcorn Historical Society for publication.