In the 1930s a group of researchers descended on the northern mill town of Bolton – my native town – to observe the natives. They christened their chosen case-study ‘Worktown’. It was a ground breaking study of working class culture – and one thing they wanted to know was what makes people happy.
The people of Bolton were asked a simple question: “What is happiness to you and yours?” The letters written in response reveal a snapshot of the innermost thoughts and feelings of ordinary people, living ordinary lives almost a century ago.
Journalist Katharine Longworth returned to Bolton to discover whether this town still holds the secret to happiness. Exploring the town centre, markets, pasty shops and pubs; she asked the same question, bringing the original letters to life as modern-day Boltonians reflect on the insights of their predecessors.
I was delighted to be asked to be one of the actors bringing these letters to life. It airs on BBC R4 Sunday 1st Feb 2026More details about the programme here BBC R4 Worktown link
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