Walk celebrates poet on 200th anniversary

WAUGH’S Well, Rossendale’s most evocative moorland monument, is the destination for the latest of a series of free guided walks organised by the Friends of the Valley of Stone.

It marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of prolific Lancashire dialect writer Edwin Waugh (1817-1890) who became known as The People’s Poet, striking a chord with the working classes through his themes of nature, freedom, local customs, courtship and family life.

The well is next to a former farm at Foe Edge which Waugh, known as “a bit of a lad’’, used as an escape from the excesses of his torrid life.

One of the walk leaders, Graham Barnes, lived at Foe Edge and will highlight at first hand what life was like at this isolated farm.

The seven-mile walk involves short sections of rough terrain so strong footwear and waterproofs are advised for participants.

The walk takes place this Sunday, July 23, leaving the main car park in Waterfoot, opposite the Royal Hotel at 1pm. All are welcome. For more details about the walks please contact Arthur Baldwin on 01706 214219.