The Houghton Weavers

Members: Tony Berry, lead vocalist; David Littler, lead guitar, mandolin, bass guitar and piano accordion; Steve Millington, keyboards, bass, mandolin, ukulele, harmonica and piano accordion.

When and where did you form?

In 1975, after watching folk gigs at the Red Lion in Westhoughton.

What is your sound and who are your influences?

Folk sound that is influenced by artistes such as Dylan, Clancy Brothers, Ewan MacColl and others.

What is the biggest gig you have played to date?

The Free Trade Hall in Manchester. The most people outdoor was 20,000 at Pier Head, Liverpool, plus television appearances.

If you are not already, is it your ambition to become professional?

We prefer 'full time' as opposed to professional. It's been our only source of income since 1980.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

We hope we are still going so we can celebrate our golden anniversary. We still love it.

Is there anything unusual or interesting about the band?

It's been an interesting and unusual 12 months. We've all been quite seriously ill but we are back.

Upcoming gigs: In the local area we will be appearing at the Victoria Hall on Saturday, December 13, with our friends Wingates Band. We also have afternoon shows at Rivington Barn during November, Chorley Little Theatre on November 29, the Bethel church in Westhoughton on December 6 and finally Edenfield Church, Bury, on December 20. For more details, visit houghtonweavers.com.