Bridport, in the ninth century, centred around St Mary’s Church, and was home to one of four Dorset mints. Its medieval prosperity was largely based on rope making, nets and sailcloths; King John ordered the sheriff to make 'night and day, as many ropes for ships both large and small as they could ...' The industry survives, even making nets for Wimbledon and Wembley. "... such images is a compelling journey brought to life by Bridport Past ..." Bridport & Lyme Regis News