WINSFORD’S proud and mysterious Easter tradition paying tribute to the town’s salty past, present, and future returns this Good Friday.
The ritual, known as Good Friday Balls, harks back to simpler times when the town’s children would be given brightly painted balls by their salt-mining fathers in lieu of chocolate Easter eggs.
Back then, chocolate was a luxury only the richest townsfolk could afford.
Exactly what the balls were made of is something of a mystery, and is still widely debated.
Some hold they were steel balls, vital in the salt-making process, which were placed inside the enormous brine evaporation pans to prevent unwanted sediments forming.
Others say the balls were actually made from the rock salt itself.
The Good Friday gifting ritual, which is unique to Winsford, evolved to including many different kinds of balls, such as footballs and bouncy balls, though it sadly dwindled over time.
When work was being done on the town’s Neighbourhood Plan back in 2014, residents said the town should do more to celebrate its rich salt heritage, so the tradition was revived by members of Winsford Town Council.
This Good Friday, April 3, Winsford town mayor, Cllr Graham Newton, will be giving out balls to youngsters in an event which starts at 10am outside Boots in the town centre.
The give-away begins at 11am and will continue while stocks last.
Cllr Newton said: "It’s an honour to be part of this tradition. Good Friday balls are very popular in Winsford, and with a limited number available, please arrive early to avoid disappointment.
“I look forward to seeing everyone there.
“We would like to thank Compass Minerals for sponsoring this event and for their continued support.”
Gary Sinclair, Compass Minerals UK managing director, said: "Compass Minerals is proud to continue our long-standing tradition of sponsoring Winsford’s Good Friday Balls.
“This custom dates back to the early days of the salt mine, when miners would take home small balls of salt as a simple gift for their children.
“Although the community has grown and changed, the tradition remains a meaningful reminder of our shared heritage.
“As the custodians of the Winsford Rock Salt Mine, we’re honoured to help keep this unique piece of local history alive."
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