George Townsend had previously been a partner in Everard, Colclough & Townsend (1837-45) and then Colclough & Townsend (1856-50).

The St. Gregory's works at 17 High Street, Longton was established by George Barnes in 1794. There were a succession of manufacturers and then in 1843 the works passed to Sampson Beardmore who in 1850 was succeeded by George Townsend. 

It was Sampson Beardmore who called the works "Old Established Pottery" - a name that Townsend continued.

In the 1861 census George Townsend was described as "Earthenware and China manufacturer employing about 500 people including men, women and children." He was living with his family and a servant in High Street Longton.

From around 1862 Townsend operated from Chadwick Street and Stafford Street, Longton.  

In 1864 George experienced financial difficulties and was made bankrupt - this was discharged in February 1865. He continued in business and the last recorded directory entry was in the 1867 Keates directory.

In February 1868 there was a Petition for Bankruptcy of "George Townsend, of Sandford-hill, Longton
Beerseller and Machineman, and formerly a Manufacturer of Earthenware" It is likely that this is the same George Townsend.