Simple but cheerful old-time mill party (From Keighley News)

Simple but cheerful old-time mill party

7:44am Thursday 17th December 2009

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The camaraderie of old-time mill life is evident in this simple but cheerful little Christmas party, above, at John P Heaton and Co Ltd, wool combers and spinners, of Low Mills, Keighley, in 1960.

Established in 1875, the firm specialised in hosiery, moquette and hand knitting yards.

The photograph has been supplied by Mrs Joan Wiseman, of Ashbourne Road, Ingrow, who appears third from the left as Miss Joan Smith. The party was being held in the winding department in what was known as “the three-cornered room”.

She recalls the others, from left, as Susan Smith, Verona Mosley, Iris Tomlinson, Maureen McIngley, Joan Lonsdale, Phyllis Holmes, May Sharp and Mary Martin.

Overlooker Billy Andrews stands behind.

Opposite: These workers at the Cross Roads Mills, at Salts (Saltaire) Ltd have decorated their department for what looks like a 1940s Christmas.

The photograph has been supplied by Joan Harrison, of Skipton, whose great-aunt Francis Smith is second from the left on the second row back.

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