Hidden mosaic uncovered in Gainsborough House, Leigh

The mosaic was found beneath the floor of a building now known as Gainsborough House and has revealed a connection to early 20th-century milliner Mary Jane Allison, known as Madame Ratcliffe.

The discovery was made during refurbishment works by DMR Training, which was converting the building into its second office.

Dave Radley, owner of DMR Training, said: "Ethos is all about regeneration with respect, not just bricks and mortar, but stories, people, and pride.

"We’re here to leave something behind that matters.

"What really struck me was the parallel – Mary gave young women opportunities in her time, and here we are a century later, doing something similar in a different field.

"That kind of legacy deserves to be honoured.

"This isn’t just a refurbishment project to us, it’s about restoring meaning.

"Every building has a past, and sometimes that past is more powerful than we expect.

"It’s part of the town’s fabric again and I hope when people walk past, they feel that same spark of curiosity and pride that we did.

"Gainsborough House deserved to be remembered and now, it will be."

The mosaic bore the name Gainsborough House and led the team to research the site’s history.

They discovered its link to Madame Ratcliffe, who opened the premises in 1910 as a tribute to the Gainsborough picture hat, inspired by the artist Thomas Gainsborough’s portraits.

The mosaic (Image: Supplied) Madame Ratcliffe was a prominent figure in Leigh, running a successful business and training young women in millinery and tailoring.

Her workshop was known not only for its craftsmanship but also as a place of mentorship and opportunity.

To honour her legacy, DMR Training has incorporated hat-themed décor into the refurbished space and digitally recreated the original mosaic on the building’s front.

Tassels reminiscent of Madame Ratcliffe’s signature hats now adorn the side of the façade.

Though DMR Training operates in construction, the company draws a parallel to Madame Ratcliffe’s commitment to upskilling and supporting the community.

The company now offers training and personal development opportunities in the construction sector.

The restored frontage once again reads Gainsborough House, bringing new life to a piece of the town’s history.

DMR Training is inviting members of the public to visit the site and view the restored façade.

The company describes it as both a tribute to the past and a symbol of future ambition.