Tell us a bit about yourself
I was born in 1951 and have lived in Whitehaven all my life. I feel part of St Begh’s as I was Christened here and attended school here until 1966.
I have been writing poems about my family for eight years as well as true stories about my life as part of such a loving family.
I looked after them but now I have lost them all and I am left by myself, and I find that very hard as I miss them so much. We were such a happy family, full of love and laughter.
I chose this story because it is true and brings back happy memories.
Monkey Business
(based on “Rosie Opens a Supermarket” in the Whitehaven News, 4/4/1963)
‘Twas April 1963, a great day to remember for me.
Lipton’s new supermarket was packed
As I pushed myself to the front to get in on the act.
The photo was taken, my face in full view
With Rosie the chimp who came from the zoo.
The following week I returned to school,
About to be made to look a real fool.
Sir asked me, “Well, what has been wrong with you?”
And I replied, “Oh, I’ve had a bad dose of the flu.”
“Oh dear,” he said, “How I feel so sorry for you.”
Then he picked up the paper to show the whole class:
“Now look who has been a naughty lass.
You recovered fast in such a short while
Standing there as bold as brass with your great big smile.
Instead of being at school you decided to choose
To show your little face in the ‘Whitehaven News’”
Well, I was caught out and showed up that day
Stuck for words, I had nothing to say.
Sir went on, “Well, Susan, you really are a proper wee imp,
Standing there so boldly with Rosie the chimp.”
“Sir,” I replied, “it may sound strange,
But staying off school was a very nice change.”
Susan Bell
Now, you may all object to my childish views
And to seeing my face in the ‘Whitehaven News’,
But it was a lovely surprise for my face to be seen
And to remember that day when I was only thirteen.
Just one more thing I have to tell:
Eee by gum, that monkey did smell!
