To get a good idea of life in Salford earlier last century, "Shabby Tiger" and "Rachel Rosing" by Howard Spring are the most evocative.

Being born and brought up in post-war Manchester, I love the song. It reminds me of a summer evening when I was doing a gig at a club in Salford in the '60's. As we approached by car, the air smelled of chips, exhaust fumes, pollution, and an indefinable excitement about the evening ahead.

The pavements were still hot, and there were weeds growing in a neglected, tiny front garden. Even these had a smell of their own.

I remember nothing about the gig itself!!!!

Cheers, Bron.