Village is one of top places to live (From Bury Times)

Village is one of top places to live

9:57am Thursday 21st March 2013 in Bury

RAMSBOTTOM has been named as one of the best places to live in the North West.

A survey by the Sunday Times found it was among the top 10 locations in the region.

The guide took into account a wide range of elements, including transport links, quality of schools, natural beauty, low crime rate, property prices, cultural life and unemployment figures.

Each area was also assessed on its own individual assets, such as festivals, fascinating architecture or proximity to an airport.

Among Ramsbottom’s highlights was the East Lancashire Railway and the fact it was “full of country character but close to Manchester”.

Sunday Times associate editor Eleanor Mills, who edited the guide, said: “When the BBC was anxious to persuade staff to relocate from London to Salford Quays, the small town of Ramsbottom, 12 miles north of Manchester, featured on the tour.

“Just five minutes from the M66, ‘Rammy’, once dominated by wool and cotton mills, has long been a favourite for those who want a village feel with the bonus of delis, bars and award-winning restaurants. A twice-monthly artisan market, specialist shops and an annual music festival add to the appeal.”

Ramsbottom’s position on the list has been welcomed by many local people, who enjoy the town’s attractions.

Councillor Mike Connolly, leader of Bury Council, said: “People in Ramsbottom have known for a long time that they live in a desirable part of the world, and we're all delighted that the Sunday Times have now brought this ‘secre’t to a national audience.”

Paul Morris, owner of the Chocolate Cafe in Ramsbottom, said: “We love the friendliness, the sense of community and having the countryside on our doorstep.”

Julian Ferrier, from Pearson Ferrier estate agents, attributed Ramsbottom’s popularity to its schools, good transport links, restaurants, childcare facilities and attractions such as Nuttall Park.

He said: “I can’t think of many things that aren’t covered here. Thankfully it isn’t as big as other places and lots of the land is protected, so it remains small enough to be personal. People think Ramsbottom is great. The prices here are cheaper than in south Manchester and people come to get better value for money.”

Other desirable towns in the North West included Kendal, Lytham St Annes, Chester, Hale and Didsbury.