RUSHCART
AS IN DAYS OF YORE
SEPT. 7th l903
PROCEEDS TO THE INFIRMARY
AND EYE HOSPITAL
The back of the cart was most tastefully arranged with heather and flowers which greatly enhanced the appearance of the rush pile, estimated to be of 30 cwt. A sum of nearly ten pounds was collected the first day for the benefit of the institutions named. (Examiner, 12 Sept 1903).
The chief part in the pleasure making was borne by the Mossley Morris Dancers. There were eight of them, lithe swarth faced athletes, waring garish hued costumes. The caps were of cherry red plush, adorned with heather sprigs, and the bows at the throat and the sashes were of pale blue. The red knee breeches were edged with lace and hung from them were clusters of tinkling bells. The accompaniments to their dancing were played by a side drummer and a flautist. Swaying rhythmically from side to side of the sun-steeped road and threading many evolutions they danced along, the rushcart in their wake. (Chronical, 8 Sept 1903).