The song was learnt by Sheffield ramblers in Muker, probably from a park Warden or ranger.

When David Smith started playing at Dungworth he brought friends from other sessions he played at including one Albert Broadhead . One Sunday at the carols David asked Albert to contribute a song, and that was his favourite so that was what he sang.

In the "English Winter" documentary it is sung by Neil Henderson, who used to lead the singing but suffered a stroke a few years ago.