Rochdale [key], metropolitan borough (1991 pop. 97,282), NW England, located in the Manchester metropolitan area on the Roch River. The city's chief industry is the spinning and weaving of cotton and woolen yarns. Rayon, rubber, leather, and electrical equipment are also produced. The Rochdale Society of Equitable Pioneers was founded in 1844. There is a memorial to John Bright, who was born in Rochdale. The parish church of St. Chad dates from the 14th cent.
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