Big Jim Holton picture brings back memories

RE: Remember When, Jim Holton (May 13). I got to know Jim and his wife Jan when we both worked for M&B. He ran the Rising Sun until I offered him the chance to move to the Old Stag, Bishop Street. During his time there, we attended a benefit dinner for Gladstone Small at an hotel near Stratford. Although obviously there were several celebrities present on the night, Jim was the main attraction. Jim took advantage of all the fuss and revelled in entertaining everyone in the bar with songs, stories and jokes. It continued on through the early hours until Jan had demanded they left. She ordered a taxi and the next thing is Jim telling the driver what a conman he was for charging such a ridiculous amount when they hadn’t even left the hotel grounds. His face was a picture when the the driver explained that the 6.20 on the clock was actually the time and not the fare. With regards to his performance on the pitch, as a Manchester United supporter I used to take great pleasure in reminding him of his impression of a statue during the Manchester derby at Old Trafford, when he was marking Denis Law but allowed him to back heel the ball into the net that led to a defeat that eventually led to United getting relegated. And yes, he would blame those around him at the time and remind me that my observational skills weren’t that brilliant either, if I was up in the Stretford End shouting “Six-foot-two, eyes of blue”. Great man, great company, great memories. Martin roddy Earlsdon

Why not free loved ones from distress?

THE vast majority of pet owners will show concern when their pets appear distressed.

These owners will seek all the help that is available to return their pet to normal.

Should that fail, with heaviness in heart, the owner will put it out of its misery by requesting a vet to put it to sleep. In this country there are many folk who pray they also could be treated as one of these pets.

Why are they not allowed to be freed from their lasting distress? It would ease the NHS. David Peacock Henley Green

big brew up event to support forces

ALL are welcome to the Big Brew Up 2017 in support of SSAFA – The Armed Forces Charity, which will be held in Coventry city centre on Saturday, June 10.

It will be hosted by members of St John The Baptist Church, Fleet Street, near to the old Co-op, Corporation Street, between 10am and 12 noon. Michael Smith Coventry