...is now online at www.blackandwhites.co.uk

...is now online at www.blackandwhites.co.uk

I was also there at your first Ashes match at Wembley in 1963. Was working in London and helped to organise ( via the company's Sports and Social Club) a coach trip of over 2 dozen to see the match - for most this was their first visit to a RL game and they really enjoyed the floodlit game even though there was only a crowd of around 14,000. At least, unlike you, we were under cover!

I was pretty optimistic going into the match as we had won the 2 previous Ashes series in Aus(1962) and the UK(1959) and the atrocious weather was in our favour too but we were completely outclassed as you described. Ever hopeful I went to Swinton to see the second match and we conceded 50 points in a complete shellacking.

I love your weekly posts Pete.You and I have a lot in common.Same age and watched Hull for over 60 years.My first final was 1956 at Maine rd and not missed one since.Interesting to see Colin Mountains name as he was my dads apprentice in the 60s so I spent some time with him,He was A lie then thats how he pronounced it before changing it.Please dont be offended if I tell you mr Clay was Eric not Ernie and Terry Hollingdrake was from Keighley not Bramley.Keep up the fun in these sad times.Let me know if there is anything I can help you with,I worked with Martin Thomlinson some years back and have another mutual friend in Steve Wray both ex Hessle rufc. Graham