Joan Leach was Knutsford's own resident historian. Joan was born and grew up in Knutsford and had a vast knowledge of local history.
Joan lived nearly all her life in Knutsford and taught at a primary school in nearby Sale for some years. Joan also taught at a school in Greenwich and worked for a period at The Institute of Oceanography on samples from Scott's polar expeditions. Joan later returned to teaching in Knutsford.
 

Joan enjoyed historical research and had written about Knutsford's history. She also acted as consultant to the press on historical matters. She was an admirer of Elizabeth Gaskell's work and founded The Gaskell Society, of which she was Honorary Secretary, in 1985 on the 175th anniversary of Elizabeth's birth.

In September 2000 Joan organised Knutsford's inaugural Literature Festival which attracted visitors from all over the world to celebrate the work of many top authors (including Knutsford's own Elizabeth Gaskell), some of whom were in attendance for the eleven day event.

Well known locally, Joan was often to be found at Knutsford Heritage Centre, where she worked regularly as a volunteer, and also giving talks and tours as well as appearing in the local press. Despite Joan's very busy schedule though, here she took time out to answer your questions on Virtual-Knutsford.

The History Of Knutsford Royal May Day
Looking Back At Knutsford (co-authors K Goodchild & P Ikin)
Both titles available from Knutsford Heritage Centre. Tel 01565 650506