With a market place older than Machu Pichu and pubs dating back to the 16th century, Bury is undoubtedly rich with history.

But with history comes age, and many of our old structures and buildings have felt the wear and tear of the years which has put them "at risk".

Historic England, the public body that looks after England's historic environment, oversees a register of listed buildings, sites, and conservation areas it deems "at-risk".

There are currently three of these historic buildings in Bury which could potentially be lost forever.

Bury Times: Lower Chesham Hall todayLower Chesham Hall today

Grade II listed Lower Chesham Hall, the oldest of the "at-risk" list, is situated on Bell Lane in Bury.

Built in 1713 by Richard Kay of Baldingstone, who was the cousin of the inventor of the "flying shuttle" cotton technology, John Kay.

It is part of a large house built from sandstone in the 18th century that is still retaining its original features.

However, the house is currently listed as "at-risk" due to the house’s need for general repairs.

Bury Times: Church of St MarieChurch of St Marie

Second on the list is the Church of St Marie, situated on Manchester Road and build in 1841.

It is a gothic-style church which has had considerable amounts of structural movement in the tower.

This has resulted in fractured stone and ultimately, heavy rainwater leaking into the interior of the church.

The historical building may not be at risk of being completely lost however as the National Lottery Heritage Fund is supporting a repair project with their Grants for Places of Worship scheme.

Bury Times:

Finally, a 1844-50 church with a very similar issue has also landed on the "at risk" list after considerable damage had been dealt to its spire.

Ramsbottom’s Church of St Paul has had considerable damage to its spire which has been structurally unstable, leaning and causing problems throughout the years.

It showcases early English-style lancet windows, sandstone and slate roofs and some extra additions paid for during the 1870s by William Grant of Nuttall Hall.

To explore the map of historical buildings in Bury click here