Littleborough is a village within the Metropolitan Borough of Rochdale, in Greater Manchester. It is set in the upper Roch Valley by the foothills of the South Pennines, 3 miles (4.8 km) northeast of Rochdale and 12.6 miles (20.3 km) north-northeast of the city of Manchester. In 2001, Littleborough and its surrounding suburban areas of Calderbrook, Shore and Smithy Bridge were recorded as having a population of 13,807. When cotton was launched as a base to make cloths, Littleborough experienced an influx of families, largely from the neighbouring county, the West Riding of Yorkshire. Affluent homes and estates were established on the outskirts of the town. Coal mining, engineering ventures and progressively large fabric mills resulted in Littleborough's population expansion and urbanisation, which produced its status as a mill town. During the mid-20th century, imports of less expensive foreign items contributed towards the gradual deindustrialisation of Littleborough, but the business diversity of the town enabled it to stave off the following economic depression, which was experienced elsewhere in North West England. Littleborough's stone-built town centre is designated as a Conservation Area for its particular architectural qualities. The town also boasts good dining and leisure facilities, with Littleborough Rugby Union Football Club being named 'Club of the Year' at National Ruby Football Awards. For all of your house upgrades, make sure to make use of respected specialists in Littleborough to make certain of quality.