IT was in the late 90s that Neil Scotland, Robbie Gaines, Daniel Laverty and Paul Redican fell in love with dance music.

But more than 20 years later, the childhood friends are still keeping that candle burning.

And during the coronavirus lockdown, the Greenwood House Mafia – as they are collectively known – are playing online DJ sets of classic Mr Smith’s tunes steamed live on Facebook every Saturday night.

Warrington Guardian:

Paul Redican

Initially playing to a small handful of family and friends, four weeks on they have had listeners tuning into their Lockdown Sessions from as far afield as New Zealand.

Neil, 43, said: “The idea was quite simple, to just give everybody something to look forward to every Saturday and keep people connected.

“I didn’t think it would become a regular thing, we just hastily arranged a Facebook group and we did a couple of hours each.

Warrington Guardian:

Neil Scotland

“But the response that we got from everybody who tuned in was overwhelming, and week on week we’ve built on it a little bit more – now it’s really starting to take shape.

“We’re really pleased with how it’s gone, and quite surprised as well.”

The quartet grew up in the Greenwood Crescent area of Orford that gives them their name, and have been best friends for the past 30 years since first meeting aged 11.

Neil added: “Even though none of us live close by anymore, we still try and get back together once a month.

Warrington Guardian:

The Greenwood House Mafia during a trip to Wembley with Warrington Wolves

“But with the lockdown, we’ve probably spent more time together in the past few weeks – all of it digitally, obviously – than we normally would.

“Everyone has migrated out because of work, but we’re all still proud Warringtonians.”