A NEW book on Altrincham’s heroic Chapel Street hits bookstores and libraries next week.

‘The Bravest Little Street in England’ charts the full history of Chapel Street, from its origins in the late 1700s through to its demise in the 1950s.

Chapel Street’s fame was widespread throughout England and King George V dubbed it the ‘bravest little street in England’ after its valiant role in the First World War.

The King famously congratulated the street on its ‘patriotism and fighting spirit’, after 161 men enlisted from just 60 or so terraced houses. Many were killed on the battlefields, never to return to their Altrincham homes.

Newspapers around the world reported on the street’s heroism and the tragic toll the war took on its families.

Councillor Kevin Procter, executive member for communities and housing at Trafford Council, said: “So often the lives of ordinary working class people are missing from the history books. I am humbled by the courage and patriotism of the brave men of Chapel Street, many of whom paid the ultimate price for their country.

“With the centenary of the end of the Great War just three months away, this book is a fitting tribute to the heroism of those who served their country.”

The book has taken more than four years of research to complete and includes all the names of the soldiers listed on the Chapel Street Roll of Honour.

It tells the stories of the men and their families, many of whom were of Irish descent, and looks at their origins and family background.

You can loan or buy a copy at Trafford Libraries, or online at Amazon for £14.99.