The Eight Lancashire Lads

The Eight Lancashire Lads was a troupe of young male clog dancers who toured the music halls of Great Britain in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

They were founded by Bill Cawley and J.W. (William) Jackson (1863–1940) of Wigan, Lancashire. As they became more successful, they recruited other members such as Charlie Chaplin, who got his first professional break with them at the age of ten.

Percy Joshua Norman (Pip)was also one the lads. He was in them round about 1921. His wife Pat Norman is now 91 (this is written on 16 March 2013)and living in Bradford. Also his son Chris Norman was in the band Smokie who had a lots of hits all over the world in the 70's. Chris has had a solo career since the 80's and is still touring and recording to this day, he resides in the Isle of Man with his wife and family.

Gabriel Winestein was another of the lads. Born in Leeds, Gabriel joined the troupe in about 1905. Gabriel is the grandfather of Keith Winestein, an actor (stage name Robert Elliot) and Glynis Winestein, a National Trade Union Official.

The book 'CHAPLIN Stage by Stage' () by A.J Marriot, lists all of the Eight Lancashire Lads performances which featured Charlie Chaplin.

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