The Houghton Weavers, the trio of lads from Cow Yead City, (it’s a long story) hit the Sunset City over the weekend.
Once again, their mix of gentle humour, friendliness, and nostalgic ballads beguiled the audience at the Peel Centenary Centre on both Saturday and Sunday.
The Weavers were greeted by a full and enthusiastic house as they stepped on to the stage on Sunday to deliver songs and stories which ranged from ‘The Rawtenstall Annual Fair’ to ‘Blowing in the Wind’ and on to ‘Ellan Vannin’.
An air of conviviality and bonhomie settled over the venue as Tony Berry, the lead singer and raconteur, promised a set which would be completely different to the one from Saturday.
The band encouraged and fielded requests from the audience with deceptive ease.
Every song had a story attached to it.
And one was left with the impression of being invited into someone’s front parlour and being treated to a good old fashioned sing along in which everyone felt included.
As always, the team at the Centenary Centre handled the front of house and technical duties with their usual aplomb and skill.
At the end of the gig everyone went home with a glow something akin to the one delivered by Uncle Joe’s Mint Balls.
All in all, a Reet Gradley Neet.
l The Houghton Weavers is comprised of Tony Berry (lead singer), David Littler (guitar, mandolin and vocals) and Steve Millington (bass and keyboards).
The band was formed in Bolton in 1975.
Its original line-up was David Littler and his brother Denis, Norman Prince and Tony Berry. But Norman and Denis eventually left and keyboard player Steve Millington joined 14 years ago.
More than 24 albums bear their name – many of which have been re-released and are still major sellers.