Pat and each, I can't remember going to Lewis's before WW2, but I do remember the shops in Newtown Row (Blacks The House That Jack Built) Aston, having grottos with Santa resplendent in them. Later, after my little family left Stourbridge to live in Perry Barr/Great Barr, we took our two boys to queue to see him in Lewis's. I am just looking at a piccy of them sitting on his lap - oh dear, 45 years ago. And the queue went round the corner in the street. Best regards to all, Vic Kent, UK

On 05 Jun, <VAGarvey@aol.com> wrote: > I am just looking at a piccy of them sitting on his lap - oh dear, 45 > years ago That's just reminded me that I have a photo of a cousin I've never met, taken at Lewis's Grotto with Santa, in 1958 (before I was born). Her name was Catherine Barratt, and her father's name was Fred Barratt. He would be in his 90s if he was still alive! I believe they used to live around the Halesowen area, if anyone has any leads on them I'd be grateful. Cheers -- Chris Ramsbottom researching: BARRATT, DANCER, FELLOWS, GOODES, ROBINSON, TUCKLEY, WHEWAY MAHER all in and around Birmingham/Smethwick, 1850 to present day