Accrington Web - Another Love Story

Inspired by the thread from Bagpuss, I was going to add my comments, but realised that I should not detract from that superb love story, & should perhaps add my comments on another thread........ forgive me if I have made the wrong decision!!

I first came over to this area as a 19yr old, in August 1964, from my home in Manchester, & began working at the Dunkenhalgh in Clayton-le-Moors. My intention was to gain some 'first class' experience in hotel work, so that I could eventually apply for a position on the cruise liners as a 'Bar Steward' ( no jokes please!), & eventually, see the world, without the need to join the Armed Forces.

Having previously worked at the CIS in Manchester, earning the princely sum of £4.17.6d, I was overjoyed to be offerred £8.10.00, living in, with all my food included..... once I started, I was also earning approximately £20.00 per week in tips!!(Don't tell the Taxman!)

Although working an average of 80 hrs per week, you may imagine, this fabulous wealth turned me into a bit of a 'Jack the lad'.

Until, that is, the day that this little blonde receptionist started working at the 'Dunk'!!

I lusted after her for weeks, until I eventually walked her up to the bus stop at the Load of Mischief... just as she was getting onto the bus to go home, I blurted out.....'would you like to come out with me on my next night off??'
Thankfully, her reply was positive! She had no choice, as the bus was swiftly departing!

Well, that was it!
I was determined to show her a good night out, as only the 'Mancs' could do it!

On the night itself, I started quite understated.... we caught the Ribble bus into Manchester. I then took her to one of the pubs I used to frequent, hoping to see my old mates, & show off my latest 'totty'.

Sod's law, none of them were there!!!
I decided we needed music, so put a shilling in the juke box, & invited her to select something suitable. What I didn't know at the time, was that one of her favourite groups was the Rolling Stones. And what was their current hit??
'This could be the last time'........ This, on our first date!!

Anyway, I then decided to take her to Mr Smith's, a night club I had only visited once before, with my father, in those days, the epitome of 'class' & 'good taste'!!
As it happened, the 'Turn' that night was none other than the late, great, Tommy Cooper. Any of you that only know of this great comedian from his appearances on telly will have no comprehension of what he was like 'live'.
Suffice to say, that we were both blushing for most of the night!!

Having paid for the bus, a few drinks in the Ducie Arms, a taxi across to Mr Smith's, the subsequent meal & drinks, I still had a few quid left, so suggested we take a taxi home... it cost all of £5.00!!! Those were the days!!

I must have made the right impression, we first met in Feb 1965, engaged by June 1965, married in June 1966, two days after her 21st birthday!

We now have two fabulous daughters, three beautiful grandchildren, & I couldn't wish for anything better in life, despite still living in Accrington... that wasn't in the game plan... I never got to see the world, but, no regrets whatsoever, I wouldn't change a thing!!

Would love to read other's stories......how about Willow & Busman for starters?