The Parish of North Meols (which included Churchtown, Crossens, Marshside and Banks) has had its history dated back to pre-conquest days. Known then as Otegrimeles, it was held by Saxon Lords until the Norman Conquest. In between the sea and the great Martin Mere, the narrow strip of arable land that consituted North Meols passed on to William De Coudrey. The son of William De Coudrey, Robert, built the first Manor House in the Parish, Meols Hall, but the area remained isolated and thus was very slow developing. The cluster of cottages around the Church became known as Churchtown and was for many centuries the most populated area in North Meols.