who was Skittery Winter today?

[nora T]

Am i for ever Skittery Winter, as i was born on 31 december, nora T.

[Skoosh]

My experience of "Skittery Winter!" was folk who appeared late at work after Ne'erday & got pelters!

Skoosh.

[Gillg]

First footing was common in northern England as well as Scotland.  We lived in Lancashire and my father was a popular first footer in the neighbourhood, as he had dark hair.  After midnight he would visit neighbours, bearing Christmas cake, whisky and a lump of coal (food, drink and warmth).  By the time he got home he would be rosy-cheeked and a little tipsy, as he was offered a drink at each house. 

[andrewalston]

The first footing at my parents' house has always been to carry in, through the FRONT door, coal, bread and cash.

My mum, who has always been the upholder of traditions, was from the Bolton area. There may have been some influence by the tee-totallers in the switching of alcohol for cash, though in this case there is always a drink awaiting the first footer.