I OFTEN wonder if those responsible for naming the thoroughfares on new developments ever do any research when they come to make their decisions.

Take for instance the new estate off Chester Road - Knightsbridge. Er, maybe I'm wrong but I thought that place was 200 miles away in the metropolis.

Far better to have called it Beaurepair (pleasant resort), the medieval name for Knights Grange.

Many towns have honoured local heroes. Why not commemorate RSM James Clarke, the First World War Victoria Cross winner from Over. At least there is a plaque in his memory at Greenfields School.

Then there is the uncrowned king of Winsford, John Henry Cooke. What about remembering him?

There are many other examples that could be used. How about the participants in the 14th century peasants' revolt at Darnhall, some of whom came from Over.

Their names can be found in Mr Tony Bostock's booklet. The residents of these roads would have a good tale to tell any visitors.

How about using some of the great saltworks, such as Meadow Island, Railway and River, Woodend and Newbridge amongst others? Or even the salt barons, maybe Folk or Furneval to name two. To my knowledge only Verdin and Dudley are remembered, but this would be far more interesting than the dull and boring names for streets these days.

Just imagine, long after those two illustrious chronicles of the local history scene have departed the stage, subsequent generations may be investigating why they live in Bob Curzon Avenue or Brian Curzon Crescent.

On second thoughts though, perhaps a trifle confusing for any future deliverymen, if there are any about in the years to come.

Interested of Over.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.