Prosperity first came to Runcorn with the building of the Manchester Ship Canal, which was completed in 1776 - the start of Runcorn as an industrial town. Heavy industry, such as soap and alkali works, soon moved in, as did major transportation links, including the Bridgewater Canal. As people flocked to the town for work in its chemical works, the character of the place changed as it grew to accommodate the overspill from Liverpool. Sprawling housing estates were built, including the infamous Southgate, and Runcorn New Town was officially designated in 1964.

Runcorn at Work explores the life of this industrial Cheshire town and its people, from pre-industrial beginnings through to the present day, in a fascinating series of contemporary photographs and illustrations.