Knutsford
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Template:GBdot Knutsford is a town in the county of Cheshire in the north west of England, north of Northwich, and west of Wilmslow.
The origins of the name are unclear: some believe it means "Canute's ford" (where Canute crossed the River Lily), others think it means "neat's ford", a crossing place for cattle.
Knutsford was the model for Elizabeth Gaskell's novel Cranford. She lived in the town for a time.
North of Knutsford is Tatton Hall. It is included in the Tatton parliamentary constituency.
Knutsford is also the birthplace of Henry Royce, of Rolls-Royce and the main town in the constituency of Tatton, which is the most affluent outside of London. The current MP is George Osborne, the Conservative Party's Treasurer.
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Events
There are several events in the town each year including the annual the Knutsford Royal May Day (http://www.virtual-knutsford.co.uk/frameset.php?main=/mayday_main.htm) festival, where the town comes to a standstill as hundreds of people parade through the streets, which is followed by the crowning of the May Queen. There is also a fun fair.
There are many events at Tatton Park varying from the Royal Horticulture Show to the American Car show.
Sports
Knutsford has a variety of sports teams including (but not limited to): rugby, football, cricket, tennis and squash.
The rugby team has recently (2004/5) been established and was promoted a division within its first season! They are supported by some of the Sale Sharks team.
Film appearances
Scenes from Steven Spielberg's film Empire of the Sun were filmed on Legh Road in Knutsford.
Scenes from the George Scott film "Patton" were filmed in the centre of Knutsford in front of the old town hall (now a furniture sale room)
Famous companies
Eurocamp was founded in Knutsford, but recently relocated to Northwich.
Motorways
Knutsford is also known for its service station on the M6 motorway.