Hi Jean and Beth-
I found the 1841 census very useful but now I am at the point where it looks like parish records are starting to be the way to go and I don't know a whole lot about getting parish records beyond familysearch.org! So, I could really just contact Cheshire and get a photocopy of the parish record? And parish records have the same amount of information on them as certificates from 1837 onwards?
I am convinced that John Swindells and Deborah are my ancestors because of the 1841 census. I traced back my ancestors to a William Minshall, who I found on the 1841 census living in Alderley with Deborah Swindells, Hannah Minshall b. 1800 and twin babies b. 1838 Elizabeth Ann and John Minshall. The father's name and profession (Thomas Minshall butler/butcher) on the twins' birth certificates was the same as on William Minshall's marriage certificate, and in addition, William was living in Alderley at the time of his marriage. The birth certificates stated that the mother was Hannah Minshall nee Swindells, so I guessed that she must be the daughter of Deborah. I ordered Deborah's death certificate and it stated that she was the widow of one John Swindells.
Many thanks,
Sam