Most local birdwatching societies evolved from evening classes organised by Bill Mulligan. Bill Mulligan was once described as one of the last old-style naturalists.
There were classes held around the Manchester area in Altrincham, Chadkirk, Didsbury, Glossop, Lymm, Stockport and Wilmslow.
When Bill retired, he suggested that class members start a society of their own. Charles Linfoot our present President went to Bills classes in Didsbury and along with Bill formed our society.
The inaugural meeting was held at Pendlebury Hall, Lancashire Hill, Stockport, on 18th December 1972, attended by 21 people. It was agreed that the title should be STOCKPORT ORNITHOLOGISTS. (by 1985 the title had been changed to Stockport Birdwatching Society).
The first outdoor meeting was arranged for 6th January 1973 to Southport by car, members to meet at the Pineapple Inn, Heaton Lane, Stockport at 8.00am.
The first indoor meeting at Pendlebury Hall was to be held on 29th January 1973, Speaker to be arranged. The name of that first speaker is not known.
Stockport Birdwatching Society is still going strong, with a current membership in excess of 50. We run coach trips and indoor meetings for members and guests. Our annual programme consists of 8 indoor meetings with a guest speaker and 10 coach trips to a variety of destinations.
