I remember the ships' sirens, and the fog horns too, Pam - perhaps we didn't live too far from one another. I was in Liverpool 7, but looking at your mail again, I see you were in the Wirral. Would give a lot to hear those sounds again Marged No Christmas recollections but New Year. When I was a child my mum and dad always woke me up before midnight and I remember standing at the doorway or out in the street with all the neighbours as everyone gathered around waiting for midnight when all the ships in dock on the Mersey let off their sirens. It always seemed exciting and something to look forward to. That is New Year to me and it has never been the same since I moved away to the south of England. Best wishes Pam (ex Wirral)

Hello, Christmas and New Year - Merseyside memories - As a child I recall the "Grottos" in Lewis and Blacklers Stores - remember one where you went on water in a small boat - Father Christmas always with a gift at the end. Usually went to Morning Service Chistmas Day (Childwall or Mossley Hill). New Year Sirens etc and the Tall Dar Man bearing coal and I think Salt. Happy thoughts as I sit in Queensland in high temps. Happy Christmas to you all. Regards Maureen __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com