I RECENTLY came across an old letter that referred to morris dancers dancing in Whitefield to the Besses o' th' Barn brass band in 1909 or 1910.

It was thought that the dancers were collier lads from Westhoughton. This is the first time that I have come across a reference to a team of morris dancers from Westhoughton before the First World War.

I am also aware that Miss Ditchfield ran a team in the 1920s but have no further information.

If any readers can cast any light on either of these teams of dancers I would be very pleased if they would contact me.

Peter Bearon

14 Church Street

Westhoughton

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