Winter Hill 125

by Paul Salveson

DID you know that in 1896 the people of Halliwell, (Bolton), and surrounding areas were involved in a historic battle with wealthy landowner Colonel Richard Ainsworth? Many thousands of local people were involved in what was the biggest rights of way dispute in British history when Ainsworth closed public means of access to the moors so he could hold private grouse shooting parties for his friends. Will Yo’ Come o’ Sunday Mornin’?

One Sunday morning thousands marched up Halliwell, Smithills Dean and then along Coal Pit Road. They were determined to defy Col. Ainsworth and his restrictions. A folk song ‘Will Yo’Come o’ Sunday Mornin’? was written to encourage people to take part. Local historian Paul Salveson wrote a pamphlet of the same name which led to commemorative walks in 1982 and 1996.

Sunday 5th September 2021

A commemorative walk is planned to mark the 125th anniversary of the original “mass trespass”. We hope you’d like to be involved!

Please look out for details. Facebook: Winter Hill 125.

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