THIS is the fascinating story of a man who dedicated his life to the town, leaving a lasting legacy in his wake.

Sylvanus Reynolds was such a well-respected member of the community that hundreds of people lined the streets for his funeral.

Known to many as Captain Reynolds, Sylvanus was secretary of the Warrington Conservative Association in 1860 and later went on to take on the role as president.

He was also involved with the building of the Conservative Club on Sankey Street, which opened in 1884. 

Sylvanus had earlier demonstrated his patriotism by joining the Warrington Volunteers on their formation. 

In 1862 he was promoted to captain and continued to be known by this title until his death on November 13, 1887.

His sudden and untimely demise at the age of 57 was described as a ‘grievous loss to the town and the Conservative party’. 

He died the day after a shooting incident when his gun accidentally discharged while climbing a fence, causing extensive injury to his leg which had to be amputated at a nearby house.

His funeral was an impressive occasion, with hundreds of people lining the road from his home at Raddon Court to watch the procession to Grappenhall Church. 

The mourners included Sir Gilbert and Lady Greenall, together with other dignitaries from politics and industry.

Sylvanus built the mansion Raddon Court in 1883, near the tannery where he also erected a row of cottages for his workforce. 

The house has since been demolished and Raddon Court 2000 occupies the site. 

A month before his death Sylvanus and his wife Jane presented the stained-glass east window to Christ Church, Latchford.

To mark his services to the Conservative Association, the members had subscribed for a marble bust to be sculpted by J Warrington Wood in Italy.

Donated by his wife Jane in 1888, the bust was placed in the Conservative Club where it remained until 1970.

The bust was purchased at that time by Kevin Donoghue and it remained in his care until he gave it to the Conservative Club in 1992 – the 21st anniversary of the club’s occupancy of Vigo House.