大象传媒

Crossley Bros. Ltd was well known in Manchester with factories in both Openshaw and Gorton making motor cars. The firm was so successful it bought a new site on the Manchester-Stockport border to relieve congestion with building work starting in 1914.

Then war broke out and the family owned company began making staff cars and ambulances for the Royal Flying Corps. By 1917, the 36 acre site on High Lane in Heaton Chapel had become National Aircraft Factory No. 2.

It employed 2,500 people and during its existence it made 6,000 DH light bombers before production ceased after the Armistice.

The only living reminder of the factory is an industrial site opposite Cringle Park in Crossley Road.

Location: Crossley Road, Stockport SK4 5BF
Image: Interior of the factory, courtesy of Steven Myatt