THIS year marks the 125th anniversary of the UK's biggest ever rights of way dispute — Bolton's 1896 'Battle for Winter Hill'.
And commemorations to mark the the landmark year kick-off tomorrow (January 6) with a talk by Bolton Family History's by Paul Salveson this evening.
He will talk about his book, Moorland Memories and Reflections as well as plans to mark the anniversary.
The Battle for Winter Hill took place in September 1896 when many thousands of local people from Halliwell, Smithills and the surrounding areas were involved in a historic battle to reclaim access to moorland footpaths.
This was after wealthy local landowner Colonel Ainsworth, closed of historic rights of way to members of the public in order to save the moors of Winter Hill for private grouse shooting parties with his friends. This caused uproar amongst local mill and factory workers who decided they would defy Col Ainsworth and his restrictions.
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.
Mr Salveson (pictured) wrote a pamphlet of the same name which led to commemorative walks in 1982 and 1996.
During 2021 organisers are hoping to have talks, live music and other events building up to a big walk.
A Winter Hill 125 group has recently been set up which intends to bring people together.
READ MORE: Winter Hill was the battleground for the right to roam
The main event will be a walk — dependent on the pandemic — on Sunday, September 5 .
The main walk is likely to be up Halliwell Road, up Smithills Dean Road and up Coal Pit Road over Winter Hill and into Belmont, a distance of approximately 12 kilometres. Shorter routes are also being considered for those who may be unable to walk so far.
Organisers say there has already been a great deal of interest both locally and nationally.
More information on how to listen to the talk can be found on Winter Hill 125 Facebook group and at http://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/bolton-fhs-meeting-moorlands-memories-and-reflections-tickets-127053740157
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