ANN TODD
was a truly impressive and multi-talented individual who made a name for herself as an accomplished English actress. Born on January 24, 1907, in Hartford Cheshire, England, Todd began her acting career on the stage before transitioning to film. She appeared in a veritable plethora of English productions during the 1930s and 1940s, including an Academy Award-nominated turn in “The Seventh Veil.” She went on to star in numerous other successful films, such as the Alfred Hitchcock-directed “The Paradine Case” and “The Sound Barrier,” as well as “The Passionate Friends.”
Todd was also an active contributor to the theater, with starring roles in several high-profile productions, including “The Deep Blue Sea” and “The Heiress.” Alongside her impressive artistic talents, Todd was also known for her philanthropic efforts and her work with underprivileged children and disadvantaged communities. In recognition of her exceptional charitable work, Todd was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 1970. Sadly, this remarkable actress passed away on May 6th, 1993, in London, leaving behind an incredible legacy of art and compassion.
the albemarle bomber
Flying low over Hartford on 15 April 1944, an Albemarle bomber crashed into the wall at the end of the drive to Grange Farmhouse, killing all but one of its five-man crew.
One of them, Hartford’s Sgt Aubrey Gerald Crowe, is remembered on the plaque unveiled by Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire David Briggs and Gerry’s granddaughter Christine Falland at a Remembrance ceremony in 2015 (pictured).
Councillor Phil Herbert has produced a book with more information. This can be read, by appointment, at the village hall.
Lal hilditch
Clarence George “Lal” Hilditch was an English footballer, and one of only two men to have been simultaneously a player and the manager at Manchester United (the other being Ryan Giggs).
A stalwart in the United team for over a decade, he played 322 league games scoring 7 league goals before retiring in 1932 without winning any medals with the club.
