THE hoary old chestnut is back again: Why are St Helens folk known as Woolly-backs?
The query is brought up by L. Massie, formerly from Liverpool and now newly-moved to Recreation Drive, Billinge.
He's been asked by one of the girls on his desk why Scousers call Sint Elleners by such a derogatory nickname.
L. M. has heard two or three reasons, but hopes someone can throw new light on the subject.
Well, from my earlier mail, it would appear that Liverpudlian old-time dockers are more fitted to the nickname. They were noticed to carry masses of wool strands on their backs from carrying imported fleeces.
Other jocular theories include that St Helens folk come from a place 'fit only for sheep' and that horse-riding, woolly-cloaked taxmen used to invade St Helens for unpaid dues! So take your pick!
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