THE Houghton Weavers round off what has been a memorable year with festive frolics when they return to Wirral later this month.

The Lancashire-based folk group make their 27th appearance at the Gladstone Theatre in Greendale Road, Port Sunlight on Saturday, December 28.

Keyboard player Steve Millington told the Globe: "We're looking forward to coming back to the Gladstone, the audience are always very responsive.

"We are already three dates into the Christmas tour and it’s going very well. There’s a real buzz."

Also featuring Dave Littler, guitarist Jeff Hill and singer Tony Berry the band formed in 1975 and have kept audiences entertained eversince with humour, anecdotes and a repertoire of popular folk songs ranging from the raucous and traditional to ballads performed in their own inimitable style.

Steve said: "This has been a bad year. I've had a brain haemorrage, Tony’s had two operations on his throat and Dave's not been too well. The lady who sells our merchandise at shows had a fall last week.

"It's certainly been a memorable year, in which we've all been through the mill, but we’re back and fighting fit."

Over the past three decades the group has enjoyed non-stop success, and together have become some of the country's most popular entertainers, with a large fan club and a great following at their concerts.

They can even boast a Number 1 hit in Tasmania with their perennial favourite "The Blackpool Belle", a song that also reached Number three in New Zealand. They have recorded thirty albums, three DVDs and have numerous radio and television appearances to their credit.

On the band’s longevity, Steve said: "We’ve not had a perfect marriage, but when groups have been going as we have you never do, but we love touring."

Looking ahead to their 40th anniversary in two years’ time he continued: "We've got a few things planned, so it’s going to be an exciting year."

Tickets for their show at the Gladstone Theatre on December 28, which starts at 7.30pm, are from: 0151 643 8757.

The Globe has two pairs to give away. For a chance of winning, answer the following question: Where are the Houghton Weavers from?

Send the answer, together with your contact details to Houghton Weavers Competition, Wirral Globe, Haymarket Court, Hinson Street, Birkenhead CH41 5BX. The closing date is 5pm on Wednesday, December 18.

The Port Sunlight Players pantomime, Beauty and The Beast will be staged at the venue from December 13–15. Birkenhead Operatic Society and the Haydock Silver Band present their Fanfare For Christmas on December 17 and 18. Barbara Johnston Stage School’s Christmas show is staged on December 19-21.

Early in the New Year Pauline Daniels is back with her Christmas Comedy Cracker Show, whilst top tribute acts Elvis, The Mersey Beatles and Take That are certain to get the Gladstone Theatre New Year programme off to a rousing start.

Tickets for all shows are from the theatre's box office on 0151 643 8757 and on-line at www.gladstonetheatre.org.uk