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Bob Dobson · 28-08-2015, 10:11

In 1971, I compiled a book 'Lancashire Nicknames & Sayings' after a few years of researching and collecting them. The entry for Accrington reads:

Accrington Shotheads: A shothead is a name for the small fish with the big head better known as the Bullhead or Miller's Thumb. It is a sarcastic allusion to the imaginary largeness of the Accringtonian's head and refers to the 'bigheadedness', inn the boastful sense, possibly occasioned by the Accringtonian's intense pride in the town. I should know - I am one.

When I wrote that, I had not actually heard the term being used, but had read it and I confirmed its use with a couple of local historians. Neither have I heard it used since. Have you ? Any comments ?

The nickname fits into a common pattern in that it is humourous and derogatory. There are many animal-related nicknames.

28-08-2015, 10:11	#1
Bob Dobson Senior Member+ Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Staining, Blackpool Posts: 3,096 Liked: 407 times Rep Power: 158674	Accrinton Shotheads In 1971, I compiled a book 'Lancashire Nicknames & Sayings' after a few years of researching and collecting them. The entry for Accrington reads: Accrington Shotheads: A shothead is a name for the small fish with the big head better known as the Bullhead or Miller's Thumb. It is a sarcastic allusion to the imaginary largeness of the Accringtonian's head and refers to the 'bigheadedness', inn the boastful sense, possibly occasioned by the Accringtonian's intense pride in the town. I should know - I am one. When I wrote that, I had not actually heard the term being used, but had read it and I confirmed its use with a couple of local historians. Neither have I heard it used since. Have you ? Any comments ? The nickname fits into a common pattern in that it is humourous and derogatory. There are many animal-related nicknames.