Long Preston Reservoir
History and details of the construction of Long Preston Reservoir and Water Main.
Photograph of Long Preston Reservoir in 1896.
Photograph of the Water Fountain c.1925 with T. Jackman on a bike and W. Procter sitting on the fountain. Note the old gas lamp.
Article from the Craven Weekly Pioneer published on 3rd July 1869 reporting on the ceremony to present the reservoir to the inhabitants of Long Preston. Extract below, full original available as hard copy.
‘An event of considerable importance took place at the thriving villager of Long Preston, on Saturday last, when a reservoir was presented to the inhabitants by Thomas Holgate, Esq. Brooklands, the seat of the donor, is in close proximity to the village, itself situated in one of the most charming and picturesque nooks of Craven; and by conferring on his neighbours the inestimable gift of a plentiful supply of water. Mr Holgate only places a crowning stone upon the many acts of kindness and generosity he has shown to those in the midst of whom he dwells.’
Residents of Long Preston, along with the inhabitants of Hellifield, Wigglesworth, Halton West and about two to three hundred schoolchildren gathered ‘in the Market-place shortly after noon, and, headed by the Kildwick brass band, marched to Mr Holgate’s residence at Brooklands. On arriving in front of Brooklands, the procession was met by Mr and Mrs Holgate and by Mrs Holgate snr. and Mr Holgate made the presentation of the waterworks and fountain to the inhabitants. The Vicar (Revd. Coulson) then presented an address to Mr Holgate
Revd. Coulson closed his address with the following:-
‘I have now, sir, to ask your acceptance of the following address, which, with the leave of the committee, I will read aloud. To Thomas Holgate, Esquire, of Brooklands, “We the inhabitants of Long Preston, beg your acceptance of this day’s public entertainment and rejoicing, believing that the endeavour to impart happiness to all around us will be more acceptable to you in testimony of our gratitude for the munificent gift you have this day conferred upon our township, than any which might take a more personal form. That God may bless Mrs Holgate and you, and long spare you amongst us to witness the benefits which yonder waterworks and this handsome fountain, both your liberal gifts, cannot fail to impart to us and our posterity, is the sincere wish of every inhabitant of this our native town. Long-Preston, June 20th, 1869
Notes on the Water Works registered charity with details of maintenance and upgrades between 1982 and 1991.
Long Preston Water Trust snippets from the minute books 1869 to 1997 and a list of Trustees 1888 to 1997. Hard copy only.
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