THE North-west’s favourite folk group The Houghton Weavers are back on the road again this month and starting their new tour at Bury Met.

Local fans will not only be happy to welcome back the group on Friday, September 10 but also to hear some new songs written during lockdown.

These will be performed alongside the Weavers’ successful stock in trade of music to make people smile and to touch the heart.

“It was difficult, but we managed to get together whenever we could during lockdown to write these new songs,” explained Steve Millington.

“They include sea shanties, which are very popular currently, and another nautical song Tall Ships which David Littler wrote.

“This is all for a new album to be called New World in the Morning. That’s taken from the Roger Whittaker song, which is also included, but we felt the title was just right for now.”

Steve and Dave, along with Jim Berry, will be joined on tour as usual by Tony Johnston of the Fivepenny Piece who brings his own brand of humour and music.

Jim’s brother and longtime Weavers’ stalwart Tony Berry, who died from cancer in 2019, won’t be forgotten in their shows, either.

“He’s with us every day, every minute,” added Steve. “He was our musical brother and we miss him greatly.”

The Weavers have been together for more than 45 years and have fans right across the world. They were formed originally as The Westhoughton Weavers as some of the lads lived in the town but dropped the “West” later as being too long.

The group is credited with helping change the face of folk music and has proved an enduring force in the music world.

The Weavers have planned five concerts around the North West in September. As Steve said, “We’re delighted to be returning to Bury Met for our first concert as it’s one of our favourite venues. We always get a great reception and fabulous audiences.”