Liverpool Tales from the Mersey Mouth - A book by John Williams

"This is a wonderful collection of writings by John Williams. While it isn't specifically about the Beatles, they are clearly a part of the story, along with the very fiber and fabric of the city that influenced him and them as well. The pieces are short, well written and filled with a delicious sense of humor that shines in the titles as well as the essays." Jan Perry, Cincinnati Post
"John Williams writes in the language of Liverpool, a Scouse scribe who brings to life the people and places, inner thoughts and outer images, the vigour and vitality and essentially, the iron humour of a unique city." Bill Harry, founder of Mersey Beat

Jean McNamara from Australia via Liverpool

wrote on October 31. 2003, 12:35: E-mail: namaraa at dodo.com.au

I've only just discovered the site. Am looking forward to spending many hours reminiscing.

John Williams from Liverpool

wrote on October 31. 2003, 09:09: E-mail: john at liverpooltales.com

URL: http://www.liverpooltales.com

A new guest book. All previous entries can be found on the main page.

Buzz Jenks from Liverpool

wrote on October 30. 2003, 14:35: E-mail: buzziejenksatbtopenworld .com

well written, I'd think the book would sell well.

I too was on the Vindicatrix in 1953.

Buzz

Norm Gee from New Zealand via Liverpool

wrote on October 29. 2003, 21:36: E-mail: normgeeatparadise.net.nz

Great Reading! left Liverpool 40 years ago, but still love to remember all those wonderful places and events, and people, of yesteryear!. Many Thanks,

Mel Dodding R796666 from USA via Liverpool

wrote on October 29. 2003, 14:52: E-mail: karmelsatkktc.net

HI John,

What a wonderful story,I like your self joined the Vindi at 16,

I was a trainee steward. the only names I can remember are Chop Chop, & Agate.

But I do rememer the Vindi stew on a Saturday.

Like your self I only did a a few trips then I joined the army where I did 22yrs.

I now live in the Turkish republic of Northern Cyprus and have done for the last 10 yrs.

Thank you once again for a wonderful story.

Mel Dodding

alicia beck from USA

signed the guestbook on October 29. 2003, 13:58.

E-mail: greeneyedangel44811atyahoo.com

meleri roberts from Wales

wrote on October 29. 2003, 11:33: E-mail: C.M.Robertsatuwic.ac.uk

thanks! im in the proses of studying for a degree in modern history and i found your site very usefull! i went on holiday to Liverpool this summer and found it fascinating- i only wish i was there during the 50's amnd 60's!

Mia Lobel from Canada

wrote on October 28. 2003, 18:08: E-mail: mialobelathotmail.com

URL: http://www.learningbydoing.net

hello

i'm not, as a rule, in the habit of leaving notes after nosing about other people's websites... in this case, however, i would like to express my appreciation for the stories i have found here...

what a great read!

thank you and keep up the great work!

be well

mia

ps. if you have the time and temperament, i would like to know where else you are published?

Annika from England

wrote on October 28. 2003, 15:14:

I found this article about colours very interesting. have you heard of the term pink collar workers to describe work dominated by women such as shop assistants etc?

Brian Stringer from Liverpool

signed the guestbook on October 28. 2003, 07:41. E-mail: BRIANSTRINGataol.com

VIOLET MARTIN -JAMES from Liverpool

wrote on October 26. 2003, 23:20: E-mail: VLJ7atHOTMAIL.COM

URL: http://WWW.PEOPLEPC.COM

GO SCOUSERS, NOW LIVE IN ATLANTA GEORGIA, BUT ALWAYS A SCOUSER AT HEART

yvonne from United Kingdom

wrote on October 25. 2003, 17:10: E-mail: yh001e5539atblueyonder.co.uk

Very enjoyable and interesting.......

A C Hughes from Australia via Liverpool

wrote on October 25. 2003, 11:19: --

This is a very true story of what went on at the docks as my father was a docker along with his brothers.

I remember well going with him to collect his wages from the pen, also his mates who where known by their nicknames.

Holy Joe because he would not work on sundays.

Stanley Matthews because he only took the corners of the crates.

very good work lets have some more.

dave tully from Liverpool

wrote on October 22. 2003, 22:10: E-mail: davjet1947ataol.com

enjoyed your stories keep up the good work.

Joseph (joe) Silcock from Canada via Liverpool

wrote on October 22. 2003, 16:27: E-mail: joissyatsympatico.ca

What a great job. I found your site via merseymouth. I know now what I missed. I have never laughed for a long time. I am trying to tell my grandkids just how different things are in Canada than Liverpool. Thanks for your effort Joe. Keep it coming

Pat Johnson from Liverpool

wrote on October 22. 2003, 14:32: E-mail: pat.johnson36atblueyonder.co.uk

Discovered your site through Scottie Press, haven't laughed so much for a long time

keep the tales coming they are brilliant.

paul francke from USA via Liverpool

wrote on October 22. 2003, 04:15: --

a brilliant story about your early catholic memories.

thank you for putting your heart on your sleeve in that way. it's a great help.

Berni Pitroff from USA via Liverpool

wrote on October 22. 2003, 02:07: E-mail: Fitzpitzataol.com

URL: http://Fitzpitzataol.com

Loved your rendering from Crete, it was a bloody howl, so very typical of the island although a little bit more sophisticated than I remember. I know Crete well and Elounda, spent several years there in Chania and Chersonissos/Iraklion. I used to work as a tour rep for Arrowsmith Hols. Brought back a lot of great memories. I always said that one day I (like McArthur) would return. Keep up the great work love reading your stuff. If its one thing I miss living in the USA, it is the Liverpool wit and humour, and all the great characters that seem to evolve from that city. This seems a very mundane place to live. Keep up the good work. Tra for now Berni

ann Reynolds from Liverpool

signed the guestbook on October 21. 2003, 22:45.

E-mail: annatreynolds9659.freeserve.co.uk

Georgette Torevell from Australia

wrote on October 21. 2003, 22:05: E-mail: gtorevellatvtown.com.au

Great site

al ward from United Kingdom

wrote on October 21. 2003, 13:14: E-mail: lot36athotmail.com

How mindless can I get? It`s Tuesday afternoon and I am sitting here testing my reaction time on your website. I must get a real job.

regards Al

alec Ordish from Canada

signed the guestbook on October 21. 2003, 04:24.

E-mail: alec.ordishatsympatico.ca

Carole from Canada via Liverpool

wrote on October 20. 2003, 16:08: E-mail: starsrus ataxionet.com

Sounds as though you have had a colourful life, thus far

Peter Crompton from Canada via Liverpool

wrote on October 20. 2003, 06:10: E-mail: pcromptonatmonarch.net

Just come over this site, look forward to some good and funny reading. I am Originally from Speke

Take Care

Carole from England

wrote on October 19. 2003, 20:17: E-mail: starsrusataxionet.com

Just a former Liverpool Lass, now in Vancouver, Canada

In trying to find images of the gas street lamps, I happened upon your memories.

I'm in the process of creating a "memory book" for my adult children, who at present are not so very interested, but I think will be when I'm no longer here or may not have my marbles any more.

It's amazing what one can recall once one begins.

Karen from United Kingdom

wrote on October 17. 2003, 16:09: E-mail: kj1atblueyonder.co.uk

Hello, I actually live in Wambo Lane, which is now right next door to a large supermarket. I am searching Google for some history about this area, not having much luck so far. I remember the prefabs with great affection though.

Carl Hague from England

wrote on October 17. 2003, 10:45: E-mail: c.l.hagueatstudent.salford.ac.uk

Fair points made. I'm now studying the project as part of my university degree. I would be inclined to agree that it is hideous, but nonetheless, Liverpool seems to like it.

Christine from United Kingdom

wrote on October 16. 2003, 16:05: --

I was feeling a bit down in the dumps till I read this, thanks for cheering me up

Harry Wood from Canada via Liverpool

wrote on October 15. 2003, 19:34: E-mail: h.woodatsympatico.ca

Great Stories I would be interested in buying a copy.

I'm a Geordie ex Merchant Navy married to a St Helen's Girl

Good Work

Harry Wood

george from Australia

wrote on October 15. 2003, 16:38: E-mail: gr456athotmail.com

URL: http://www.onlinecasinodirectory.ws

Thank you for the wonderful website and information I will be back soon

Harry Bourne from England

wrote on October 14. 2003, 20:00: E-mail: bourne999attiscali.co.uk

I am very impressed with your work. As a starter, I only hope I can come up to your knee caps.

Thanking you for the experience

Harry Bourne

Jabu Mtshali from Africa

wrote on October 14. 2003, 16:01: E-mail: mtshalijatscmb.co.za

URL: http://www.stanbic.co.za

I am raising funding for a bottle manufacturing plant and in finding out more about the process, your story is the funniest thing I have read about glass manufacturing.

Gerry Smith from Liverpool

wrote on October 13. 2003, 23:04: E-mail: gerrys19atbtopenworld.com

Enjoyed reading all of these tales . Takes me back to my youth and beyond. Please keep up all the good work and I look forward to a future piece from you which refers to the likes of Billy Liddell and Tommy Lawton spinning in their graves at the antics of todays soccer heroes.

If you dont write it John...maybe I will...but I couldn't do it justice.


P. Marsden from United Kingdom

wrote on October 13. 2003, 16:54: E-mail: marsdenatblueyonder.co.uk

Funny.

I had a printer like that. Keep it up.

Phil

Eddie Maher from Liverpool

wrote on October 13. 2003, 16:21:

Great stuff. All the best.

Ed

Keith John Rice from South Africa

wrote on October 13. 2003, 11:05: E-mail: riceman1atmweb.co.za

Hi There,

My mother in law told me to visit your website, and i must admitt your tales are funny but true, i am taking my wife and five year old son over to liverpool for christmas later on this year, and of course most of our time will be spent at goodison park !!!! cheers, keith

Kim from USA

wrote on October 13. 2003, 09:25: E-mail: OKGrumpyataol.com

Yes I would be interested in your book. Can't wait.

Kim from USA

wrote on October 13. 2003, 09:07: E-mail: OKGrumpyataol.com

My first visit and I had to laugh. Keep up the good work.

patrick from USA

wrote on October 13. 2003, 01:34:

go on with you story

Mary from Australia

wrote on October 12. 2003, 23:36:

Hi John,

Just sent another happy hour reading your stories.

The sooner your book is published the better for me.

Looking forward to buying it soon.

Mary.

marina from Australia

wrote on October 12. 2003, 19:59: E-mail: sheerwater1atoptusnet.com

2001 spent a wonderfull time in MERSEYSIDE with my family who live in WIRRAL-Seabank road..Wonderfull place and people,they took me to Liverpool i wished i had been able to stay and learn more.But Sept 11 happened and i was placed on a plane at Manchester and returned to Aussie..But loved MERSEYSIDE and know the history in the area is very interesting; M

Neil Midgley from Canada

wrote on October 12. 2003, 19:46: E-mail: neemagattelus.net

Good stories, just started to read them, it's going to take a while. Keep up the good work. From Kelowna British Columbia Canada

sue sutton from England

wrote on October 12. 2003, 19:27: E-mail: lpoolsueatyahoo.co.uk

Really enjoy reading your pages, and I really hope that a book is imminent. Good luck!

Pat from Canada

wrote on October 12. 2003, 18:52: E-mail: Patriciairene_21atmsn.com

Thanks for the info on what a Scouser meant. I think I am one too even tho I live in Ontario Canada

I love meat and vegetable stew. Of course it could have something to do with all my British ancestors. Take care and God Bless

June Carr from Netherlands

wrote on October 12. 2003, 13:54: E-mail: jcarratplanet.nl

Hi John,

I'd certainly buy your book if you ever get one published.

June

John Nicol from United Kingdom

wrote on October 11. 2003, 15:13: E-mail: johnatvindi51.fsnet.co.uk

URL:

SMASHING

Victoria Roberts from United Kingdom

wrote on October 10. 2003, 21:09: E-mail: vmroberts10athotmail.com

What a wonderful piece! I personally do not believe in religion (not strictly true) I have my own God. Very impressive...

Paula Preston from New Zealand via Liverpool

wrote on October 10. 2003, 09:42: E-mail: dprestonz1atmaxnet.co.nz

Hi

Loved this site and really enjoyed reading all the memories of the old days in the Pool.

I would certainly try and buy one of your books if it came out.

Keep up the good work.

Cheers

Paula :-)

Glenys Philpott from New Zealand

wrote on October 10. 2003, 01:43: E-mail: Gphilpottatxtra.co.nz

Thanks for your e-mail Had lost your address But an now back to reading your funny storys

about a place very dear to us Glenys

mike hopkins from Canada

wrote on October 10. 2003, 01:31: E-mail: emmbeeatshaw.ca

lot's of old story's......i enjoyed....cheers

sylvia from Canada

wrote on October 9. 2003, 19:30: E-mail: dingle-16atshaw.ca

John your stories are so well done and down to earth i just love them and i sicerely hope you make it with your stories to be published ,,Will be keeping my figers crossed and praying for you ,,,You certainly deserve ,,,Luv Syl from powell river british columbia canada

Sheila from Australia via Liverpool

wrote on October 9. 2003, 14:04: E-mail: brunoatsenet.com.au

Love the footy boot story John and the torture we went through with new shoes. I will never forget those days...sheila.g.

JEFF JAMES from Canada via Liverpool

wrote on October 8. 2003, 22:06: E-mail: jeffjamesatshaw.ca

GOOD READ.

Pat Symes from Australia

wrote on October 8. 2003, 16:36: E-mail: auscoatihug.com.au

Great site!!

Very sad that the rest of Britain has such a poor view of Scousers but we know better don't we?

Liverpool is one of the only places where you have neighbours not social workers.

Trixie Waddell from USA via Liverpool

wrote on October 6. 2003, 20:09: E-mail: patrixatzoominternet.net

A very good train of thought John. God Bless

Trixie

angela from Cyprus

wrote on October 6. 2003, 06:14: E-mail: titina23atspidernet.com.cy

Like Marged, I was brought up around the corner from doddy's cottage

Personally, I used to cringe when I saw him. I did once go for an audition to the Royal Court hoping I could be a diddy woman ! alas, it was not to be (tic)

I worked in a T.V rental company for a couple of years and Doddy would come in 3 months late with his B/W rental fees wearing his Russian hat. I don't remember any jokes being bandied about all I can remember is me staring at that horrible mole he has next to his lip.

Now, back to who I would vote for greatest Liverpudlian, it would have to be someone further back I imagine like a Rathbone, Bibby or Father Nugent.

I love John Lennon's songs but he doesn't deserve to be placed on a pedestal above the rest of the Beatles.

Richie Hesketh from United Kingdom

wrote on October 5. 2003, 23:31: E-mail: richard.heskethatntlworld.com

Hiya John

Have just read Mellow Yellow, dead funny.

Remind me never to let you drive my ship.

Oh and I remember you kicking a football and it hitting me in the mush in our backyard in Kirkby. It was about that time too. 1963ish coincidence or what? It's surprising the things you remember after forty years and most times I can't remember what happened forty minutes ago.

Hope you are all okay

See you soon (hopefully not at another funeral)

Take care

Cousin Richie

Josie Russell from Africa

signed the guestbook on October 5. 2003, 08:21. E-mail: josie_russelatmsn.com

fred austin from Canada

wrote on October 5. 2003, 01:46:

Just found this site and I am going to read the great stories

Jim Roughley from Canada

wrote on October 5. 2003, 00:21: E-mail: james.roughleyatsympatico.ca

I myself picked John Moores. He saved Everton's Bacon and provided thousands of Jobs for L'pool People. I think we'll hear more on this John

Ted Whitworth from United Kingdom

wrote on October 4. 2003, 23:59: E-mail: tedatembaley.co.uk

URL: http://www.embaley.co.uk

I wonder if John Lennon's name would have been so high on the list if he hadn't been killed.

John how about adding England to the list of countries.

Mary from Australia

wrote on October 4. 2003, 15:29:

Hi John,

Yes I would have chosen John Lennon.

I was surprised it was Ken Dodd. Still we got Lennon's Airport which is something. I think Liverpool is a bit slow off the mark sometimes. I mean knocking down the Cavern was a disaster. But now Liverpool is on the move and maybe they will get it right this time.

Mary

*Annemarie Stinson nee Foggo from Australia via Liverpool

wrote on October 4. 2003, 13:45: E-mail: annemarieatbigfoot.com.au

Dear John thanks for the memories I get from your stories, keep it going. By the way it was not my dad's grapes you pinched. Cheers from Aus.

Marged from United Kingdom

wrote on October 4. 2003, 13:28: E-mail: marged36atbtopenworld.com

Used to live in Knotty Ash myself - grew up on the Ken Dodd legend but have never actually seen him perform. Oh, I tell a lie - he came to open a shop that I worked in once - Julian Swift at Prescot. All the girls were queueing up for personal autographs - he asked their names and to one girl said "Heather - do you grow wild on the moors, Heather?" Not bad for an off the cuff crack! Top Liverpudlian? I don't think so!

Wal Banks from Australia

wrote on October 4. 2003, 07:49: E-mail: ozsportsashmoreatbigpond.com.au

Your ragman story reminds me of my lovely wife's only visit to a court was to give evidence for buying a toy windmill from an unlicensed hawker. Oh if it was that simple now. Wally Banks

Colin Smith from Canada

wrote on October 3. 2003, 05:13: E-mail: smudgeratshaw.cxa

Nice to read some good lamp-swinging yarns. What year were you on the Vindi? I was deck in 1964. I think you must have been 1960'ish.

Cheers

Colin

John (Jack) Cullen from Liverpool

wrote on October 2. 2003, 14:44: E-mail: jc.iso.systemsatindigo.ie

URL: http://indigo.ie/~isosys

John,

I just came upon your webpage and it looks good. I see you were on the Cape York - maybe I'll hear more about it when I read more of your entries. I read 'La Mer I divorce thee', so far. I can't remember just now what I was searching for when I found your page.

I was a radio op and my first ship, as 2nd sparks, was Cape Franklin - a good ship though the OM didn't like me - he liked my senior sparks and himself and that was about it. We berthed in Vitoria, Brazil, with the Cape Howe, also an ore carrier.

I'm living in Cork, Ireland - over here for 30 odd years. I still get back a fair bit and like to call in the Roscoe Head, Quinns (White Star) and Pig and Whistle - thank God they haven't done anything to these pubs. It's a great place and I miss it and I second your wish for the good times in the 21 c.

thanks and rgds, Jack Cullen

gordon mccarthy from Australia via Liverpool

wrote on October 2. 2003, 10:32: E-mail: soldier44atoptusnet.com.au

Great memories of waiting around eating crisps when we could afford them. Great stories that take me back to my youth.

Ron (spike) Jones from Australia via Liverpool

wrote on October 1. 2003, 23:17: E-mail: bambyattpg.com.au

What a great read John, should be very proud of yourself. This site will keep me occupied for years to come. Maybe able to even locate a few Old Friends, Thanks again John.

Ken Holland from Canada

wrote on October 1. 2003, 17:02: E-mail: hollandatzoolink.com

Loved it for the memories...........

feyn from United Kingdom

wrote on September 28. 2003, 16:06: E-mail: feyniferousataol.com

I couldnt agree more. I work outside for a living and love the smells of trees or natural phenomena; however it has got to a stage whereby it makes me miserable to walk past other people because they always smell of dreadful perfumes. Even if the perfume is expensive it offends my nose and sets me off sneezing and wondering how they can go about smelling so strongly of that which is not themselves. Why does everything have to be scented or flavoured? Have our senses become dulled by years of overwhelment? Please someone invent a perfume that smells of moss ; or tell me how i can make my own .

rasik from India

wrote on September 26. 2003, 16:52: E-mail: drrasikguptaatyahoo.co.in

lot of quality information

thanks, a good read

John Williams from United Kingdom

wrote on September 26. 2003, 04:12: E-mail: editoratmerseymouth.com

URL: http://www.merseymouth.com

Welcome to another guest book as the last one was full.

Previous entries can be found in older guest books on the main page.

July-Oct 16 2003

Shequai from London

wrote on August 3. 2003, 02:09: E-mail: Shequai_splat at hotmail.com

I am doing an assignment for school and your site has some great poems.

THANKS!

Trixie Waddell from USA via Liverpool

signed the guestbook on August 2. 2003, 15:15. E-mail: patrix at zoominternet.net

Marged from United Kingdom

wrote on August 2. 2003, 13:55: E-mail: marged36 at btopenworld.com

Nice one John - good to hear something is gleaming once again in London Road!

Tom Oates from Australia via Liverpool

wrote on August 2. 2003, 13:05: E-mail: phylstom at bigpond.net.au

Great ditties John,thanks for the memories.

Regards Aye

Tom Oates

(Toxteth when it was better known as Princes Park ).

angela from Cyprus

wrote on August 2. 2003, 10:57: E-mail: titina23 at spidernet.com.cy

Well John, you've sold me on brunellis next time I'm home.

I hope the management get the opportunity to read this.

you could be the european city of culture restaurant critic.

lesley from United Kingdom

wrote on July 30. 2003, 15:33: E-mail: lesley.johnson at toft189.fsnet.co.uk

very true to form your experience,we are going back in oct 2003

can't wait

nat from United Kingdom

wrote on July 29. 2003, 19:12:

Loved the tales.

Keith Doherty from Canada via Liverpool

wrote on July 29. 2003, 00:20: E-mail: KMDAbrasives at dccnet.com

Simply sobering....I wish I could have read this 40 years ago when attending school on Merseyside...also explains one the background to my own family...my Father son of Irish immigrants married to a woman who was a from a family of Scottish Presbyterian folks etc etc....what a potent brew ...yet it all somehow worked for me...Cheers John....great stuff man.

Chas York from United Kingdom

wrote on July 28. 2003, 09:34: E-mail: Chasyork at berriew-welshpool.fsnet.co.uk

Memories of the Kop, eh - nah, nowhere near the same as when we stood and SWAYED! Many a day I've gone home with wet splattered shoes on a dry day!

Didn't make the Isle of Wight, as I was away at sea, but I did meet Jimi Hendrix in a hotel bar sometime earlier - had a drink with him, just a normal guy, no airs and graces - he could have been a Scouser!

By the way - I worked on the Tower and New Palace funfairs back in the 60s when I was at Riversdale studying to be a Radio Officer. Grew up in sight of the Liver Building but now exiled in Wales.

C'MON YEW REDS!!!

Miriam from USA

wrote on July 28. 2003, 08:05: E-mail: oldmom4 at webtv.net

Hi,

I happened to come by your site by entering NOYTA-CCCP in google search since I have a stamp on a post card with that on it from 1930. I'm trying to find the origin and history behind it. It took me to one of your stories. I then clicked on your home page and I will save it to surf at another time. It is 3:15 a.m. where I am at. I'm sure I will enjoy reading your other stories and adventures. Would love to get a reply. ;-)

bill humphreys from Liverpool

wrote on July 27. 2003, 13:45: E-mail: billhumph at hotmail.com

URL:

Great nostalgia, I'm 68 and can identify with most of your tales.Well done

Chas York from United Kingdom

wrote on July 27. 2003, 09:07: E-mail: Chasyork at berriew-welshpool.fsnet.co.uk

URL:

Exiled Merseysider - half Scouse half Manx - living in Wales. Entertaining about the preacher - I remember them too - and the escapologist who worked on the bomb site next to Lewis's... I was hoping to find some info on when the river "froze over" probably in the early 1900s - if you know where I can find any info please feel welcome to e-mail me and let me know. Cheers lah!

cj from USA

wrote on July 26. 2003, 22:33: E-mail: new_dis at mailcity.com

GREAT! Really great I was looking for a site like this for a very long time.

Ronald Jones from Liverpool

wrote on July 25. 2003, 16:57: E-mail: rondo at 17layton.freeserve.co.uk

Quite a story, could only happen to a scouse. I am a member of the Merseyside Branch of the Vindicatrix Association, we meet on the 2nd Monday of every month at 7-30pm at Sams Bar in Tithebarn Street, come and give us a visit.

ursula starr from Liverpool

signed the guestbook on July 25. 2003, 10:59. E-mail: ursulastarr at yahoo.co.uk

Pete King from Liverpool

signed the guestbook on July 23. 2003, 17:37. E-mail: jkliverpool22 at earthlink.net

Harry Porten from New Zealand via Liverpool

wrote on July 23. 2003, 12:01: E-mail: hporten at xtra.co.nz

I really enjoyed your story! Great stuff! I was at the Vindi Jan-Mar 1961 and went to sea as a galley boy. I really come from Leicester originally and came to NZ in 1963 to join the NZ M.N. After being promised a job I was unable to join the Union and never did get back to sea. I've been stuck here ever since. My wife and I have six daughters and nineteen grandchildren so I don't think I'll be going home now.

All the best

Harry

Peter Griffin from USA via Liverpool

wrote on July 22. 2003, 15:12: E-mail: Piipete at aol.com

Excellent reading for an Ex-Liverpool-Pat

maria silvia pierobon from Italy

wrote on July 17. 2003, 10:42: E-mail: silvietta_1979 at hotmail.com

Well, I have lived one year of my unversity life (2001-2002) in liverpool and I really loved it. I like England but I love Liverpool!

thanks silvia

Dave Doran from USA via Liverpool

wrote on July 17. 2003, 01:39: E-mail: daviddoran at cox.net

I also was a connie on the buses #79 Lee Park to the Pier Head everything you said was true and it was one of the best jobs I ever had. I also worked as a waiter in the French at the Adelphi and selling shoes in Lewis's, made Spam at the Blue Cap and was a Hod carrier for Wimpy's I must have had a thousand jobs before I gave it all up and came to the States, I still love and miss the place though. Dave Doran.

Lyn B from United Kingdom

wrote on July 16. 2003, 08:58: E-mail:

I really laughed at this ... I truly hope that it is not an omen!!!!

The one that we are hoping to hear about is totally wrecked inside ... but has potential! and, well outside will need at least three skips !!!!

John ... you give me HOPE!!!!!

Lyn.

evan lewis from Australia via Liverpool

wrote on July 16. 2003, 01:23: E-mail: cunardqm at pacific.net. au

HI! JOHN

Enjoyed Your stories, just read.Portrays the kind of life of the times, as I knew them.The only difference being Japan.

The only country of note I never went to. And You're more honest re. your Ashore activities.

Goood onya cobber.!

Taff Lewis.

Taff, your mail address was rejected.

John Williams

Catherine Connelly from USA via Liverpool

wrote on July 16. 2003, 00:13: E-mail: ELLOLUV97 at aol.com

Bloody good laugh...

AUDREY from USA

wrote on July 15. 2003, 14:29: E-mail: BRITGERLN5 at WEBTV.NET

Another great one John --Sonia keeps us updated :-)) Aud

Mike Tiernan from Australia via Liverpool

wrote on July 15. 2003, 08:53: E-mail: mrtiernan at iprimus.com.au

Only just found this pearl of a missing link and will definitely be sharing it around. Almost, only almost forgotten what I miss most so far from the Pool

Angela from Cyprus

wrote on July 15. 2003, 07:08: E-mail: titina23 at spidernet.com.cy

Sooooooo funny John. I have so many ghekkos around my place.

After reading your story I shall always look at them differently from now on.

Angela

Joan from USA

wrote on July 15. 2003, 02:31:

Another great one again John.

Thanks for the laughs.

Trixie Waddell from USA via Liverpool

wrote on July 15. 2003, 01:40: E-mail: patrix at zoominternet.net

Only read part of it so far , can you get me some extra hours to read it ALL? Terrific . GOD BLESS

Trixie

Bob Taylor from Canada

wrote on July 15. 2003, 01:12: E-mail: btaylor at ntl.sympatico.ca

John

Another good yarn, you certainly have the flair to put them together, but Whisky and Coke, please please tell me that's not Scotch whisky you are talking about, I thought the only barbarians that put coke in Scotch were south of the US Canada Border.

Bob Taylor

Teresa Stephens from United Kingdom

wrote on July 15. 2003, 01:03: E-mail: telmate at btopenworld.com

John, this is a ps. I've just read River Deep, it took me back! I lived in the school house at Bethesda at the end of the valley in your story from 1941 to 1945. It is still to me the most beautiful place in the world. I have been back many times and in recent years have taken my grandsons. you can imagine how they enjoyed the mountains and rivers.

You were correct about the dangers. It was not unusual for climbers to get stranded, even killed up there and what is now part of the Snowdonia National Park was used as traing area for commando's. Thanks once more for a great read...Teresa

Teresa Stephens from United Kingdom

wrote on July 15. 2003, 00:35: E-mail: telmate at btopemworld.com

Nice one John. I'm still ploughing through the tales,

keep 'em coming....Teresa

Angela from Cyprus

wrote on July 14. 2003, 18:02: E-mail: titina23 at spidernet.com.cy

another enjoyable tale John.

I imagine there are more tales involving Geoff and Dave then.

keyna donnelly from Merseyside

signed the guestbook on July 14. 2003, 09:32. E-mail: keynauk at yahoo.co.uk

AUDREY from USA

wrote on July 13. 2003, 16:57:

AUDREY from Liverpool noww in SC ---Hi John another great tale --KEEP YER WELLIES DRY LAD :-)) AUD

John Ford from United Kingdom

wrote on July 13. 2003, 08:19: E-mail: john.ford13 at ntlworld.com

enjoyed your write-up of elounda.

It is my fav holiday spot. But...you didnt mention the graceful ELENA.

Does she still serve in the evenings?

regards John.

Joanie H from USA via Liverpool

wrote on July 13. 2003, 03:09: E-mail: merseybird at aol.com

John,

You've done it again, my friend.......a wonderful story,and a terrific read.

Had me on the edge of my seat when you took that leap of faith, but knowing you I never feared you would land safely....After all, you had your wellies on, didn't you? :-)

Seriously, all your stories and poems are so well written and very entertaining.

Take care.

Joanie.

Mary from Australia via Liverpool

wrote on July 13. 2003, 00:50:

Another great tale. You are a marvel and such experiences

Wow.

Its the way you tell em I like.

Luv Mary

sylvia from Canada

wrote on July 12. 2003, 18:24: E-mail: dingle-16 at shaw.ca

John another great story just keep them a coming Thanks Syl from

Beautiful British Columbia ,,,,

Sonia from USA via Liverpool

wrote on July 12. 2003, 14:01:

An Outstanding Story John, my heart was in my mouth reading it.

I am so happy you survived to share your experience with us.

Keep your wellys ready, you never know when they will come in handy.

Tony SCOTT from New Zealand

wrote on July 12. 2003, 10:38: E-mail: MOONRAKER.NZ at xtra.co.nz

Enjoyed your yarn. brings back memories.

Ronald Thomas Jones from United Kingdom

wrote on July 11. 2003, 15:58: E-mail: rongw0bze at aol .com

Very good yarns, and put together very neatly, very interesting to read. I joined the MN Pool,at Cornhill

around dec1944, from the Vindi, and sailed mostly from Liverpool. Best of luck from Ron R326815 from Anglesey Wales

bob parrish from USA

wrote on July 10. 2003, 22:40: E-mail: bob at parrish-hansen.com

We are curious here. What is "a four of fish and finger pie"?

as in the song.

Tom Cunningham from Liverpool

wrote on July 10. 2003, 11:24: E-mail: tomcunningham at bigwig.net

URL: http://tcphotography.co.uk

Hi mate,

Just read with interest, your last article about our wonderful Constabulary we have here in Liverpool.., I know all about it you see as I was once one of that lot. Served from 1992 - 2002 at Walton Lane (as well as other places) before I was stitched-up, presented to her majesty's Crown Court, listened as the Traffic Officer told a pack of lie's and dutifully convicted by the people of Merseyside who dislike the Police. As a result... I was disqualified from driving 3 years and sent to prison for 3 months as well as upon my release.. disciplined internally and immediately sacked!

I can't believe I gave up my career to be a Copper in Liverpool, what planet was I on!??! I also do a lot of wedding photography too.. so it aint too bad.

No wonder people really do hate the Cops.. I've experienced the s***e from both inside and out & I know what go's on behind closed doors!

All the best mate... Great site too!

Tom Cunningham.

george griffiths from Australia

wrote on July 10. 2003, 07:24: E-mail: exseafarer at iinet.net.au

it was a very good read mate, what amused me most of all was it was my first trip to trinidad and the a. b's had a great delight in telling this big mumma I was a cherryboy she chased me all around the tables in the bar,i was bloody petrified and run for it, good luck mate , george perth down under

rosemary christie from Merseyside

wrote on July 9. 2003, 18:43: E-mail: rosemarychristie at hotmail.com

You are surely a man of many talents. Loved your story. You should write a book using all the work you have done already. You have a great gift for writing. What are you waiting for? Many blessings Rosemary.

Dave from Liverpool

wrote on July 9. 2003, 08:49: E-mail: davequinn at blueyonder.co.uk

Very interesting to hear someone talk about going to my local pub the Blue Ball in Prescot Street. I lived over the road in Fairclough Lane. Great times always when there was live talented musicians and singers on at the local pub and all you had to do to get in was buy a pint. Do you remember Pat the doorman? I also used to drink at the Coach and horses fifty yards up the road, which is still there.

Great reading of the old times

Thanks

ann gladding from Merseyside

wrote on July 8. 2003, 13:49: E-mail: chris.gladding at virgin.net

Hya John. I read you redneck in Elounda and I think it's brill!

There is a site for Elounda holiday Friends to keep in touch I'm sure the people who look after the site would love your article.

they are at webatelounda77.net I would have put it there but I think you may need to give the go ahead. why dont you have a look at the site it's at http://elounda77.net keep up the good work

John Braga from United Kingdom

wrote on July 6. 2003, 09:41: E-mail: JohnB at crownsys.co.uk

Much enjoyed your story of being bus-conductor on 26 route.

I also did a spell of conducting in 1966 at Speke garage.

Quite an education and I well remember the humour of the drivers and the encounters with the public - especially at chucking out time on Park Road on a Friday night.

Your story explains why my cash never matched - I always seemed to be short, no matter how much care I took!

thanks for the memories!

John B

jim melia from Manchester

wrote on July 9. 2003, 00:08: E-mail: jim at jimmeliarentals.co.uk

jumped ship in portland maine,and had the same luck and kindnes shown to me by all the locals bar the nice friendly guy in the pool hall who pulled a knife and relived me of forty dollars i was also at the ripe old age ofsixteen .regards jim

John England - Vindi D48/49 from Germany

wrote on July 8. 2003, 21:18: E-mail: john.england at gmx.net

Just a p.s. to 'correct' my location in my last mail. I'm a Londoner, but have been expat in Germany for the last 30 years. OK, it can happen to anyone!

John E.

John England - Vindi D48/49 from London

wrote on July 8. 2003, 21:14: E-mail: john.england at gmx.net

John, Robin Hurst tipped me off to your site a short while ago. I've just read your moving 'The Long and Winding Road' for openers, and I'm moved to drop you a note right away. Great stuff, mate. I sailed out of Liverpool a few times in the 1950s and have many happy memories of it. So I shall return and take my time to go through your site from bow to stern.

All best, and hope to see you at the Vindi Reunion next month.

John England

Gordon Tumber from United Kingdom

wrote on July 8. 2003, 03:53: E-mail: troubadourtumber at aol.com

URL: http://www.m-navydays.com

Great stories and well written. A joy to read. Haven't absorbed all of them yet. But I will.

Always had a soft spot for Liverpool. All best wishes. Gordon

bob edwards from Canada via Liverpool

wrote on July 8. 2003, 03:04: E-mail: rse at telusplanet.net

footnote to my previous message my niece and her husband Louise and George wong manages the Philly pub if you still go for a pint there say hello for me.

bob edwards from Canada via Liverpool

wrote on July 8. 2003, 02:57: E-mail: rse at telusplanet.net

Great site john, some brilliant stories. You must have been on the England when me and our Ronnie Mac was. We were vindi boys 52/53 Will access your site again regards Bob Edwards.

John Briand Vindi 1964 Deck from United Kingdom

wrote on July 7. 2003, 20:43: E-mail: John at briand1.freeserve.co.uk

Wonderful web site. Will keep me good for a few hours. Just read ticket to ride, took me back to when I delivered Atlantean bus prop-shafts to Edge Lane in the 80s.

greg maclean from United Kingdom

wrote on July 7. 2003, 15:28: E-mail: gregorm7 at aol.com

just been looking at your website, it's a great read, I too was a vindi deck boy spending 34 years deep sea, I'm now on pilot boats on the firth of forth.

Brenda from United Kingdom

wrote on July 4. 2003, 23:15: E-mail: brenda at cooper5325.freeserve.co.uk

Hi John.

Had a good giggle at 116.The bus stops are still the same around here,so too are the natives!

Hope you are all well

Brenda

Chris from USA via Liverpool

wrote on July 3. 2003, 16:46: E-mail: christineuk1 at ev1.net

Write the book John.... the best medicine I have had to date.

So many memories, so much humour. I believe our saving grace the world over is that we can laugh at ourselves. Absolutely

love it.

John Williams from Liverpool

wrote on July 3. 2003, 09:22: E-mail: john at merseymouth.com

URL: http://www.merseymouth.com

Another new guest book, due to file size of previous volume.

Earlier books can be found at the bottom of my index page at, http://www.merseymouth.com

( 46 people have signed this guestbook since August 16. 2003 )

James McCann from Liverpool

wrote on September 17. 2003, 13:59: --

Hi John

I love visiting this site and I find myself relating to and/or agreeing with most of the stuff you write. I am Liverpool born,(1935), and have lived here all my life.

I am of course a Liverpool fan and have witnessed all the great and not so great occasions at Anfield over the last 55 years or so.

The one that sticks most vividly in my mind is the night we played Inter in the European Cup Semi-final V Inter Milan. As I recall it was the wednesday night after we had won the FA cup for the first time

Most older fans will agree with me, I`m sure, when I say that at the time the FA cup was our Holy Grail. Before the kick off the atmosphere in the stadium was electric and when the FA cup emerged from the tunnel for its` "Lap Of Honour" the noise that erupted can not be described. All around grown men(incuding myself) had tears running in torrents down their cheeks and were hugging anyone in sight. It truely was "a night to remember".

I wonder will it ever be matched . Halcyon days indeed.

Keep up the good work

James

Mike Bowe from United Kingdom

wrote on September 16. 2003, 17:07: E-mail: Mike.boweattssi.co.uk

Your eulogy of the Kop in the old days reminded of my youthin the late fifites/early sixties going to see "the lads" (when they were in the old second division!) - memories of watching in awe from the "boy's pen" as the clouds of "steam" rose from the famous Kop. I had an Uncle, a match-goer from before the war, and a docker as well, who had a special "match coat" for use on the Kop, with the pockets judiciously sewn up - not only to guard against the ubiquitous rolled-up "footie echo" but ever since the day that, after half time, he reached into his pocket for his pork pie wrapped in last night's Echo, and unwrapped it, only to find that some kind person had eaten his pie!

Hence the sewn-up pockets.

great days, and a great team. Why doesnt anyone know all the players' names any more?

Thanks for your memories.

Paul Nicholson from Switzerland

wrote on September 15. 2003, 16:57: E-mail: pnicholsonatmydiax.ch

Not all ragmen retire to the south of France, some retire in St Moritz!

Peter Turland from United Kingdom

wrote on September 14. 2003, 13:52: E-mail: peteratdollyknot.com

URL: http://dollyknot.com

Hello from an old Vindi boy, I was there in July 1965! Thanks for your memories, enjoyable reading.

Pete.

H Glynn from United Kingdom

wrote on September 13. 2003, 21:28: E-mail: harry.glynnattiscali.co.uk

Keep up the good work and please pray for me a sinner who wants to reform

George The Liverpoolcabby from United Kingdom

wrote on September 12. 2003, 10:21:

Just another hello John as you know "I have had the privilage" we met...........

Angela from Cyprus

wrote on September 10. 2003, 06:03: E-mail: titina23atspidernet.com.cy

I could imagine the scene so well in the restaurant. It sounds like a situation comedy

when I come over I will bring you a bottle of Cyprus wine. That's a promise !

Gordon A E Williams from United Kingdom

wrote on September 8. 2003, 01:21: E-mail: pigswillatonmail.co.uk

Hello again;

Dr.Lennie Wolfman- you will recall I told you he sits next to me at Anfield- well, I mentioned your name etc and he remembers you well, sends his good wishes. He`s still going strong, still involved with medical matters but more than somewhat cheesed off with our Anfield displays!

Regards,

Gordon

Ray Chaloner from United Kingdom

wrote on September 5. 2003, 23:57: E-mail: ray.chaloneratdyserth.co.uk

Loved the story about the pub in Dyserth, wonder which of the four it was?

kitty from USA

wrote on September 5. 2003, 20:15: E-mail: princessgoneinsaneathotmail.com

also another thing I wanted to say is like your poetry as a writing it is interresting:). i love this "Poems are never finished, they are simply abandoned."

kitty from USA

wrote on September 5. 2003, 20:13: E-mail: s6rbenneatrbuhsd.k12.ca

Hey your site is very informational. You put a lot of work into it and it seems like people really enjoy reading through your stuff.

kitty

SIXER1athotmail.com from USA

wrote on September 4. 2003, 23:16:

thank you for this look at the kop being a football fan here in the states

i was always interested why liverpool are called the kop by the rags...

thanks for the story

Pamsy from USA via Liverpool

wrote on September 4. 2003, 17:25: E-mail: pkegsatearthlink.net

John, you never fail me. I pop in to your web site on and off and have so much fun going down memory lane, yours and mine.

But this story on your dislike of wine is hilarious and so well written. Love the characters sharing your reaction to another glass of vino.

Keep up the excellent work, my friend....

Pamela in Indiana

Rod Newell from United Kingdom

wrote on September 4. 2003, 12:42: E-mail: nrodnwlataol.com

I was at vindi in1943 just read your story. How about some more?

kaz from United Kingdom

wrote on September 2. 2003, 12:58: E-mail: kazzie_121athotmail.com

thought id read your diary of the atkins diet! very funny read! im about to try it myself and as you, i have a good taste for alcohol and think it might prove very difficult to give up! wish me luck ! kaz x

Mary from Australia

wrote on September 1. 2003, 01:40: --

Hi John,

I myself am not a wine drinker although I am trying to educate myself and have discovered a few that I like.

I find red wine gives me a terrific headache and most white wines leve me with a thirst. I also put lemonade in my white wines but I do remember when I was a lass buying (with friends) a bottle of QC Ruby wine 7/6p and drinking it in gulps before we went out on the town.

Still enjoy your tales.

Cheers Mary

Carolyn from Canada

wrote on September 1. 2003, 00:57: E-mail: cperkesatvideotron.ca

Methinks you need to taste Muscadet over there, in France, along with some other freedome wines. .

Or, try something from Argentina!

Cheers from Quebec!

Carolyn

Trixie Waddell from USA via Liverpool

signed the guestbook on August 31. 2003, 22:34. E-mail: patrixatzoominternet.net

Loretta from Canada via Liverpool

wrote on August 31. 2003, 22:16:

Brilliantly funny....

Wonder what would be worse...Aussie Whites or Muscadet?

I can't wait to explore your website and read more of your stories.

All the best from Canada!

audrey canney from USA via Liverpool

wrote on August 31. 2003, 21:57: E-mail: len1935ataol.com

That was a good one.

Sonia from USA via Liverpool

wrote on August 31. 2003, 19:56: E-mail: Liverpataol.com

Thanks again John, I had forgotten how much I loved a nice glass of port wine in my wilder days.

I will never know how you can creep into the corners of my mind though.

Thank you

Sonia

Jim McGilton AB from Ireland

wrote on August 24. 2003, 18:35: E-mail: jjmcgiltonataol.com

Great reading thanks Brought back a few memories.

Geoff Leonard from United Kingdom

wrote on August 23. 2003, 15:20: E-mail: trolldiverathotmail.com

Great site hit on by chance, brought all the memories back of growing up in Liverpool and how good it was. I still remember the tunnel vision and hang on to your pint times in the Eagle and Child.

angela from Cyprus

wrote on August 23. 2003, 10:24: E-mail: titina23atspidernet.com.cy

Very funny !

A new venture in the offing, might be prepared to pay in

sardines :)

Karen from Liverpool

wrote on August 22. 2003, 23:35: E-mail: karencahillatblueyonder.co.uk

Coxhead farm sounds the ideal place for a child's explorations and imagination. Wonderfully written - it was lovely to read. You are lucky to be given such fantastic memories. I remember going to my Grandparents farm in Wexford as a child. Going back now it is a run down farmhouse and outbuildings, but back then it was my yearly escape from urban surroundings. Wonderful.

Donna Maria Black from United Kingdom

wrote on August 21. 2003, 19:15: E-mail: Mrs.Blackatbtopenworld.com

Loved your site, came across it by accident whilst researching the Cameo Murder. I'm sending details of it to my sister in the U.S.(the site that is, not the murder!)

Donna Black

Lisa Williams from Liverpool

wrote on August 20. 2003, 20:06: E-mail: cultivatedsavageathotmail.com

What a great website you have set up. It is important for the people of Liverpool to remember their history. It has made us who we are today. I loved the web pages and wish you luck in the future.

ROLLO STUART CLARK from Liverpool

wrote on August 20. 2003, 13:05: E-mail: L.CLARK10atNTLWORLD.COM

Love the site. I can`t say I found out a lot I did`nt know about my home town but I like the way you`ve put it. I`m making sure my daughter knows her heritage. She likes me to sing 'Johnney Todd' and 'The Leaving Of Liverpool' at bedtime.

Susana from USA

wrote on August 20. 2003, 08:19: E-mail: snookeroo_athotmail.com

URL: http://www.geocities.com/akkanash/index.html

Tralala. Lovely site there. Enjoyed the bit about clothes shopping. Clothing is an all important thing for us teens. :) TTFN!

Jose Fuentes from Netherlands

wrote on August 27. 2003, 12:17: E-mail: lizclaybornathotmail.com

Being that history was always one of the most fascinating subjects in school I must say this article on dictators is very informative.

Futher more it was written objectively soley based on facts and logical reasoning. Excellent work!!

Margaret Dempsey from Liverpool

wrote on August 19. 2003, 20:35: E-mail: mitchdempsatyahoo.com

Hi John. just to let you know I am still with you.. and enjoying your work

hope you and the family are well. take care live long be happy Margaret

Karen from United Kingdom

wrote on August 19. 2003, 09:19: E-mail: Karenatringobells.net

During an unsuccesful web search for Liverpool's lost pubs, I came across your page about the Phil. After looking at your home page, I'll look forward to reading some more soon. Have put your site in my favourites! Karen (one of many Scousers in Somerset!)

JIM ROUGHLEY from Canada

wrote on August 18. 2003, 23:50: E-mail: james.roughleyatsympatico.ca

John you mentioned Leonard Cohen in one of your stories. Just playing him on the P.C. kazaa great Singer.

Paul Floyd from United Kingdom

wrote on August 18. 2003, 22:45: E-mail: floyd_paulatlilly.com

Wow great site you bring it all back.

I was a bare knuckle boxer up until 63 and I remember the public bouts held in the "Mystery" in Wavertree. I took and gave a few hidings in those days I can tell you. Should you wish to look into this side of Liverpool life I will gladly assist you and provide some pics. email me

regards Paul

Sonia from USA via Liverpool

wrote on August 18. 2003, 19:25: E-mail: Liverp2ataol.com

As always John, a wonderful tale, told so well.

You are special!!!

Thank you

Sonia

angela from Cyprus

wrote on August 18. 2003, 17:24: E-mail: titina23atspidernet.com.cy

Another great adventure John and so vividly recreated that I felt at times that I was on the banana boat there.

I wonder if the fruit flies ever attacked them as they do on my bunches.

Jim Roughley from Canada

wrote on August 18. 2003, 01:36: E-mail: james.roughleyatsympatico.ca

I remember Elders and Fyffes well John, our outside fitters use to work on them in Garston. Great Story John. Who would know such places existed if we didn't hear them in stories like yours.

Jimmy

Aud Spears from USA

wrote on August 17. 2003, 17:18: E-mail: britgerln5atwebtv.net

Great story John --I remember me Dads mate always brought them big hulking bunches of green Bananas home and always gave us a load --you do jog the memories with your tales --Aud In Sc longing for a ferry ride across the Mersey :-)

JOAN ROBERTS(NEE)MANSELL from Australia

wrote on August 17. 2003, 05:28: E-mail: jorobertsatmicroed.com.au

Hi. I loved your stories, reminded me how much I miss home, I was born and dragged up in Garston, went to Duncombe Road school, then Blackburn House. Miss all my old friends, and mosjoannet of all the scouse humour !!!!!!!

Trixie Waddell from USA via Liverpool

wrote on August 17. 2003, 01:10: E-mail: patrixatzoominternet.net

Heh,John, Can you name one single something you have never experienced??

Your work is fantastic. My prayers are still with you...

Peace and Love to you and yours Now and Always

Trixie xoxo

John Williams from Liverpool

wrote on August 16. 2003, 23:48: E-mail: editoratmerseymouth.com

URL: http://www.merseymouth.com

Yvonne, an email address would help love. :-)

yvonne from New Zealand

wrote on August 16. 2003, 23:24:

Hi, as you can see I come from New Zealand via Essex, a long time ago, and have been asked about one of the Beatle songs where they refer to fish and finger pie. As I was from the SE of the UK this doesn't mean much. In your info you also refer to the pie but I am still not too sure what the finger part is. This is in answer to an American friend, who like myself, is also a Beatle fan. Love your site and have bookmarked it for further reading. Cheers Yvonne.

Ted Whitworth from Liverpool

wrote on August 16. 2003, 18:56: E-mail: tedatembaley.co.uk

URL: http://www.embaley.co.uk

Now living in Norfolk

Hi John. Your tale of Bananas took me back to 48ish when I was serving an apprenticeship at Grayson Rollo South Works. I was sent out with the gang to work on the first banana boat never having seen such things before another lad and myself got a bunch and went and sat on the river wall. I will leave it to your imagination to what happened later.

Thanks for the memory

chris jones from USA via Liverpool

wrote on August 16. 2003, 13:18: E-mail: sc0use14athotmail.com

Hi John,

Nice to see the guest book back, I always check it. Keep

up the good work,

Jim Rickarby from Liverpool

wrote on August 16. 2003, 12:12: E-mail: sirjim1statyahoo.co.uk

Very Entertaining. I am from the same era as yourself, and I can relate to everything I have read so far.


dave ashton from Canada

wrote on September 26. 2003, 03:08: --

Re :-"They Call Me Mellow Yellow"

Takes me back to my first trip to sea in Dec 58.

Sailed from Garston to Tiko on Elders & Fyffes "Chanquinola" many a holy stone warn away on her deck's

anita from Liverpool

wrote on September 24. 2003, 22:04:

enjoyed your story very much.

Bob Pierce from Liverpool

wrote on September 24. 2003, 20:19: E-mail: bobanddoris36atsagainternet.co.uk

Enjoyed your pages. It brought back happy memories to me.

I was the electrician at the Shakey in 1944 and operated the switch board at show time.

I remember one of the acts that I met was Ted and Barbara Andrews, the parents of the famous Julie.

A very popular local was the comedian Wally Woods and his signature tune The Liverpool Blues.

The Manager at the time was Peter Jackson.

Best Wishes,

Bob Pierce

peter kraus from Russia

wrote on September 24. 2003, 09:41: E-mail: peterekrausathotmail.com

Wales actually, Hi JW, on the subject of butter I've invented a method of application for best butter on bread that will enable it to bite back against it's hydrogenated impostors. Poetry, I do that stuff too. PK Conway.

John Foster from Liverpool

signed the guestbook on September 22. 2003, 21:15.

mariette lauzon from Liverpool

wrote on September 22. 2003, 04:11: E-mail: marietteratvif.com

This is a wonderfull surprise to find somthing that I will be able to sit and down and read during the long cold winters of Canada. As you can see I have been in canada for over 40years but liverpool has never left my heart and I have had the good fortune of finding my family again after so many years. I have been home two times in the last four years and my wonderfull cousin has been to my home three times allso and will be coming again next year and I and my brother and his wife will be going home next year. And so thank you and will be reading all your stories one by one. Till next time ......

Catherine Connelly from USA via Liverpool

wrote on September 21. 2003, 23:33: E-mail: Elloluv97ataol.com

Lord Oh lord!

This one had me laughing.

I also had a Lambretta scooter in 1962.

Like you love, I almost went to heaven without going to jail?

I was speeding just a wee bit around the narrow lanes of Wales near Mold.

Hit a bank, I kept traveling while my lambretta's front wheel was stuck.

Only thing that saved me was the crash hat I had the sense to wear.

Was about to have it shipped to france where I was stationed in the W.R.A.F.

Instead I sold it and bought one of the first reel to reel tape recorders from St Mathews street.

Who should be in the store at the same time? Yep! they became the Fab four.

Stephen Weir from United Kingdom

wrote on September 21. 2003, 16:54: E-mail:

Finally got around to reading what my Mum wrote about Liverpool.

It does seem to me to be an exciting place, although I've only had brief visits.. I was really disappointed when I didn't

get into LIPA.

Regards

Steve Weir

skwiggy from United Kingdom

wrote on September 21. 2003, 14:50: E-mail: skwiggypopatangelfire.com

FANTASTIC! We too spent a fabulous time in Elounda & discovered the delights of Il Sole! What generous, kind people they are.

John Burns from United Kingdom

wrote on September 21. 2003, 10:18: E-mail: WHALLEYatBLUEYONDER.CO.UK

Hi John

Thanks for the laughs. I hope you were not taking the Michael out of us micks.

just so happens we have a plastic lady on our dressing table, but I think it came from Wooleys on the way home after forgetting to get one at source. Keep up the giggles

JB

Mary from Australia

wrote on September 21. 2003, 06:57:

Hi John,

All I can say ...you do make me laugh.

By the way I have a bottle of HW in a plastic Virgin Mary which a Liverpool friend gave to me on my last trip home.

Guess what... I dab a bit on myself now and then.;-)))

(just in case )

Thanks for the laughs .Mary.

Tom Magness from Australia

wrote on September 21. 2003, 06:35: E-mail: tommagness1atbigpond.com.au

Hi John,

reading through your guest book from 2001-2002. Frank Saunders mentioned Peter Craven, who was a world champ, and fought at the stadium (I assume he means the boxer). I actually worked with a boxer named Jimmy Stubbs,(welder), who fought him on a couple of occasions. I can't recall the outcome of the bouts.

Jimmy was a top boxer who hailed from Widnes/Runcorn,and fought the then world champ in a non title fight and won, but lost in the return where it mattered most, for the world championship.

some of these facts are vague, so I can't be sure of outcomes.

Perhaps you may (or readers of your guest book) be able to recall more detail?

regards to your family,Tom

Jim Roughley from Canada via Liverpool

wrote on September 20. 2003, 22:09: E-mail: james.roughleyatsympatico.ca

Great Water story John. Was that Davies's Farm where the Caravan was? We used to go camping there when we were Kids. Was that Tiber St where the Co-op Hall was on the corner or was it Tagus St?

Trixie Waddell from USA via Liverpool

wrote on September 20. 2003, 21:50: E-mail: patrixatzoominternet.net

You brought back memories of my Grandma and Mom both, Grandma was the most devoted Catholic, and for a good while Mom ran, a pretty good second, I guess you could say ,that I was in the offing for a spot in the line,,,, I wanted to be a Nun !!

Keep them acoming John,,, "cos we'll all be awaiting,,,,

GOD BLESS Trixie xoxox

Patricia from USA

wrote on September 20. 2003, 21:50: E-mail: www.midlandgalatAOL.com

USA/Kettering, Northants.

John, you did it again, thanks for making me laugh, Pat

Jean Waldrup from United Kingdom

wrote on September 20. 2003, 21:39: E-mail: jwaldrupatsc.rr.com

If any of your other stories were anything as good as this I can see that I've missed some really good ones. This being my first time to receive one of your stories I can see that you really have a knack for writing, which I envy. John - keep them coming I really enjoyed it.

Audrey from USA via Liverpool

wrote on September 20. 2003, 20:32: E-mail: len1935ataol.com

loved it. When we lived in France, my neighbour went to Lourdes and brought me back a small bottle of Holy Water that had been blessed by the priest or whoever.

My 4 year old son got hold of it and drank it. Don't think it did him any good, in fact I know it didn't.

Audrey

Josie Schicker from USA via Liverpool

wrote on September 20. 2003, 20:30:

John What great stories, keep them coming.

angela from Cyprus

wrote on September 20. 2003, 18:40: E-mail: titina23atspidernet.com.cy

Oops signed it before typing anything!

Thank Goodness your mother believed it, or we wouldn't be lounging back in the comfort of our homes all over the Globe listening to your tales John.

The Catholic religion is very similar to the Greek Orthodox where Holy water is collected from any hill that has a monastery on it.

Every time I've had a baby, I've been inundated with Virgin Mary silver plaques and bracelet charms.

We've got quite a collection after 4 kids :)

Margaret Newsome from USA via Liverpool

wrote on September 20. 2003, 18:24: E-mail: margaret_93atmsn.com

John, you have such a way with words ..I hope to see more of them ...Be safe. Margaret

Maggie from Canada via Liverpool

wrote on September 20. 2003, 17:47: E-mail: mmchaleatexeculink.com

Hi John dont know what happened on my last sign in, it said China LOl, I was born in Liverpool but now reside in Canada

Maggie

Maggie from China

wrote on September 20. 2003, 17:44: E-mail: mmchaleatexeculink.com

Enjoy all your True stories John a great delight Maggie

Tom Oates from Australia via Liverpool

wrote on September 20. 2003, 16:38: E-mail: phylstomatbigpond.net.au

As always John, a rattling good yarn. Fr Flynn of St Bernards' can rest easy now knowing where all the holy water from the fonts was going

Pam Cotton from United Kingdom

wrote on September 20. 2003, 13:54: E-mail: p.cotton4atntlworld.com

Hi John

Love the Water, Water Everywhere story. Have sat here with tears streaming down my face. It's a case of water, water everywhere once more. Wonderful stuff, keep 'em coming!!

Cheers

Pam

Stoke on Trent

Sonia from USA via Liverpool

wrote on September 20. 2003, 13:26:

John, I am speechless.

Outstanding

There is no question.............

YOU are gifted!!!!

No doubt y ou have been thoroughly doused with Holy Water, and we now know your secret.

Barb(aka Daxie) from Liverpool

wrote on September 19. 2003, 02:27: E-mail: Babs1940atblueyonder.co.uk

Hi John,long time no hear! Hope you and yours are well. The memories you give are only like they happened yesterday. It was only yesterday,wasnt it?!!! take care

Barb

john evans from United Kingdom

wrote on September 18. 2003, 13:09: E-mail: john.evans19atntlworld.com

Have enjoyed your stories about your days in the merchant navy,look forward in time to reading your articles about Liverpool. thanks for the memories

cheers John Evans

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