AST Hampsons Solicitors is proud to announce that a new blue plaque has been installed at our Rochdale office in recognition of the late Peter Lyon Taylor and the remarkable contribution made by the Taylor family to both the firm and the local community for over 145 years.
The plaque has been awarded by the Rochdale Business Improvement District (BID), an initiative supported by Rochdale Borough Council, which celebrates individuals, organisations and landmarks that have played a significant role in shaping the borough's rich history and heritage.
A Lasting Tribute to Peter Taylor and the Taylor Family
The plaque has been dedicated in honour and memory of Peter Taylor, AST Hampsons' former Managing Partner, whose leadership, commitment and dedication helped guide the firm through an important chapter of its history. Peter was an initially an active member of the BID’s steering group and later joined the Board of Directors. He was extremely proud of his home town of Rochdale.
The Taylor family has been synonymous with legal services in Rochdale since the late 19th century, with successive generations serving as partners within the firm and helping to build the reputation for trusted legal advice that AST Hampsons continues to uphold today.
The inscription on the plaque recognises the Taylor family's longstanding connection to the area and commemorates:
- Edward Lyon Taylor (1879–1932)
- Lyon Watson Taylor (1906–1969)
- Thomas Ralph Taylor (1911–1915, killed in action)
- Brian Edward Lyon Taylor (1940–1976)
- John Lyon Taylor (1950–1997)
- Peter Lyon Taylor (1980–2024)
- James Lyon Taylor (2007–present)
The Significance of Blue Plaques
Blue plaques are widely recognised as a way of marking places of historical importance and celebrating individuals who have made a lasting contribution to their communities. Within Rochdale borough, the plaque scheme helps preserve local heritage by highlighting people, buildings and organisations that have played a significant role in the area's history.
A Proud Moment for AST Hampsons
The unveiling of the blue plaque is a proud and poignant moment for everyone at AST Hampsons. It serves not only as a tribute to Peter Taylor's leadership and service of both the firm and Rochdale, but also as a lasting reminder of the values, dedication and community spirit demonstrated by the Taylor family over many decades.
Commenting on the award, James Taylor (Partner & Head of Residential Property), said:
"I am honoured that Rochdale BID has recognised the contribution of my Dad and the Taylor family generally through the installation of this blue plaque. My Dad’s commitment to the firm, our clients and the wider Rochdale community was immense, and this tribute reflects the enduring legacy that he, and previous generations left on AST Hampsons and on Rochdale generally. Dad was very proud to be actively involved in the Rochdale BID and championed Rochdale wherever he could. He was also very proud of our family’s history, the contribution of past Taylor generations to the town and the general legacy in Rochdale. I know that Dad would have been thrilled to see the family’s contribution formally recognised as part of Rochdale's history, as am I."
The plaque can be viewed at AST Hampsons' Rochdale office, where it stands as a permanent reminder of a family whose dedication has helped shape both the firm and the community it continues to serve.