SIR: What was special about April 23?

Besides being the supposed birthday of William Shakespeare, it was also St George's Day.

Nine years ago, members of Horwich Morris Men and members of the Toll Bar Band decided it was time to celebrate England's patron saint through traditional dance and music.

On the Saturday nearest to the 23rd, in addition to the popular gathering of Lancashire Morris teams in Horwich, there is the annual Barn Dance. The event takes place at St Mary's Hall, Horwich. This year it will be on April 26. The future of the barn dance is in the balance. There seems to be a reluctance locally for people to take part in an event which marks, with traditional music, England's national day.

This may be your last chance! Tickets are still available. The barn dance might not take place next year. For tickets, including buffet supper, please contact:-

D Bradley

Shrewsbury Road, Bolton

01204 840949.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.