~ The Exhibition ~

Rochdale honoured Our Gracie in a special way by staging a major exhibition open every weekday. Thousands have attended they came from near and far expressing a deep affection for this mega-star. Press cuttings line the walls and photographs too depicting Gracie's life the whole way through. From Rochdale to Hollywood then onto Capri, for this wonderful trip down memory lane admission is totally free. Molesworth street is a sheer delight there is a replica of her grandmother's chip shop and the clogger's next door, whatever meets the eye is well worth travelling for. Bertha Schofield's off-licence is also on show, a gas lamp on the street corner sheds a welcoming glow. On view is the Australian Bush hat Gracie treasured during the Second World War, decked with regimental badges by the score. A musical booth to hear her sing and a cinema to see her on the screen, a documentary filmed in Capri presents a colourful scene. An evening dress she gifted to a young fan an Aspidistra in a pot, this remarkable exhibition has got the treasured lot. When all the viewers have had a good look they add their heart warming comments in the visitors book.

~ A Gift of Love ~

If her lips could only speak if her eyes could only see, if at the Exhibition she was there in reality. If she could only listen to what folk had to say, Gracie would never cease to wonder why she was called away. Idolised by millions in our hearts she is living still, so suddenly she left us it was God's will. In this delicate matter Gracie had no choice, but she left the world a legacy, her wonderful voice.

~ Well Done ~

Debbie Walker is small and dainty like a little elf, and fast making a name for herself. She and her staff have worked hard and long, to bring Gracie to life on the screen and fill the music booths with song. Reviving precious memories so dear to the heart, the success of the Exhibition was assured from the start.

~ The Travellers Tread ~

The late Bert Aza, the late Tommy Keen, Joan Moules, David Bret and myself were inspired to write Gracie's life story the latter all in rhyme reviving a host of memories through the march of time. Marie Lloyd packed the music halls in her day Gracie entertained an audience in a versatile way. Admirers from Canada, Australia and New Zealand have travelled to Rochdale to see the Gracie Fields Exhibition now permanently on view it has aroused much enthusiasm among the young moderns too.

~ A Great Impression ~

From my home in Paignton, Devon to Rochdale the journey is straight through, travel by Yelloway coach is my advice to you. Taking note of the changing scene passing towns and countryside peaceful and serene. On arrival it feels just like home Gracie's old haunts are such a pleasure to roam. The Broadfield Country House Hotel is the place to stay offering excellent service in a warm friendly way. The Exhibition quite remarkable too this superb achievement will fascinate you. I stayed at the Broadfield Country House Hotel in nineteen ninety-two and again in ninety-three and ninety-four returning to Devon with lovely souvenirs and memories by the score. Spend a holiday in Rochdale there is so much to see visitors are treated like a V.I.P. 

~ A Meeting With Mary ~

I left my heart in a Lancashire town as I wandered up and down. Admiring all the shops and the grand Town Hall, meeting Mary Whipp was the best of all. A little old lady passing by like a breath of spring, dwelling on the memory my heart begins to sing. Friendship weaves the silver lining in every cloud, today I feel so happy so honoured and so proud. 

~ Karen Lynne ~

Karen Lynne is an actress from Darlington who adored Gracie Fields, she was chosen to take her part in a play much success it yields. Produced in music and drama under the title 'Sing As We Go', on tour up and down the country a most delightful show.

~ To Remind Me of You ~

Gracie any kind deeds remind me of you having performed so many with a heart fond and true. Starting life in poverty nurtured no selfish aim your outlook never changed when you reached the height of fame. Quite apart from public activities your family reaped the benefit too, nieces and nephews received a good education and financial backing for the future in whatever they wished to do. Generosity extended in a practical way through your early struggles you learned to bless each day.

~ A Treasure of Pleasure ~

I think of the days that have gone Gracie as I sit in my old armchair, the world is not what it was now you are no longer there. My garland of memories no one can take it away, it will sustain me when I am feeble and grey. I think of the days that have gone Gracie and count my blessings one by one for all the pleasure you gave and the good deeds you have done.

~ Yesterday Once More ~

Radio presenters aim to bring good cheer to patients in hospital all through the year. Playing a large selection of discs to suit everyone 'Golden Oldies' for the elderly 'The Spirit of the Sixties' for the young. They visit the wards and have a chat it helps to speed recovery a kind deed like that. Gracie Field's recordings are frequently asked for during a session entitled Yesterday Once More.  Gracie entertained patients in hospital as often as time would allow the delight expressed in those far off days is just as rapturous now.

~ The Good and the Grateful ~

Radio presenters are much in demand and the needs of sick patients they fully understand. These kind hearted people give their services free that is the way it will always be. Gratitude expressed in every ward and strongly supported by the medical board.