~ Flowers For A Lady ~

Strube was the most famous cartoonist of the day, he honoured Gracie Fields in a very special way. By sketching the Chelsea Hospital for Women including the window of her darkened room, a bowler hatted little man stood gazing towards it holding up a bunch of flowers in colourful bloom, bearing the simple inscription - Our Gracie. This heartfelt tribute moved her to tears, a secret admirer embroidered the picture which Gracie framed and treasured for nye on forty years.

~ The Freedom of Rochdale ~

A lady stood on the Town Hall balcony acknowledging the crowds below, until she sang 'Sally' they would not let her go. Gracie Fields C.B.E. was back in her home town where she loved to be. Many honours were bestowed on this queen of the music hall, receiving the Freedom of Rochdale the most thrilling of all. The Mayor was in attendance her parents sat side by side, smiling broadly and glowing with pride. Gracie said "Wherever I travel in this big world this casket is going with me." "Thank you for giving me such a wonderful day," the equally proud Rochdalians cheered her on her way.

~ The Warmth of Rochdale ~

I have never thought of Rochdale as a cold gloomy pklace, a bright sunny smile lights every face. No one is lonely neighbours call each day, they befriend the biggest stranger that is their natural way. Gracie Fields brother Tommy was as natural as can be, he said if he was not wearing stage make-up he would walk home with me. To mix with his fans he was very keen and I was only sixteen.

~ A Language of Their Own ~

Lancastrians have a language of their own as charming as can be, it will never cease to fascinate me. 'Ow do, ee by gum, owt and nowt, Devonians wonder what they are talking about. In t' on t' tha and thee expressed so very delightfully. Even with higher education it is quite clear, the accent and the dialect will never disappear.