He became involved in trade union activities, leading to his sacking on three occasions. He subsequently moved to the town of Oldham, becoming secretary of the Oldham district of the Amalgamated Weavers' Association in 1905, the first of many posts he held with the organisation over the next 41 years, including vice-president (1930–37) and president (1937–45).
He became involved in labor union activities, leading to his dismissal on three occasions. He subsequently relocated to Oldham, becoming secretary of the Oldham district of the Amalgamated Weavers' Association in 1905, a position he held for the next 41 years, including vice-president (1930–37) and president (1937–45).