THE Houghton Weavers – the famous folk group that started life in Westhoughton – is still happily singing through one of its toughest times.

In the past two years, all three members – Tony Berry, David Littler and Steve Millington – have suffered serious illnesses.

Tony had cancerous polyps on his larynx that threatened to end his singing career, Steve suffered a brain haemorrhage and David had a series of health problems which have just resulted in triple bypass surgery.

In spite of all this, the Weavers – after 40 years together – are continuing to entertain. And they have drafted in Tony’s younger brother, Jim, to take David’s place while he recovers fully.

“We’re still touring and we’re all doing OK – even David,” explained Tony. “He has a heart problem which both his father and brothers suffered from. It was only found by chance when he had kidney problems but he’s had surgery and is coming along well.

“In fact, when we did a show at Park Hall for the NHS recently, David came along and introduced us to the audience.”

Tony, who at one point feared losing his voice altogether, explained that Jim had come into the group for a couple of months. “He’s usually busking around the Dordogne in the Summer,” he added, “But he was happy to join us.”

Now, the famous group, which had its own TV series and counts fans from Taunton to Tasmania, is back touring. One of the upcoming highlights is a concert at Rivington Barn on Wednesday, September 7 with another regional favourite, Buzz Hawkins and his family of Bradshaws.

They are also kicking off their Christmas tour with a special show at Bury Parish Church on Saturday, December 10 when they will be joined by Bolton Cancer Choir.

For more details of forthcoming events go to http://www.houghtonweavers.com