Thats interesting Bob- i didn't say the Big Hewer was peculiar to Durham- I know there are parallels in other places- only that his time with the Elliotts gave rise to the ballad title, as 'CET' asked in 2001.

You obviously are a great admirer of MacColl and I'd certainly acknowlege his contribution to the tradition. However, I do know that the Elliotts develpoed a hearty dislike of the man, whatever his achievements in drama and literacy.
I'll leave it at that