On this day in cricket, 27 January 1966

Singing Postman receives "second-class" treatment

Allan Smethurst, better known as the chart-topping Singing Postman, is recovering from a harrowing record signing appearance at the Grimsby retail outlet, Cowboy Jacks Records.

The popular entertainer who is enjoying the success of his latest hit, Hev Yew Gotta Loight Roller Boy, told stunned reporters: "When I tried to leave as agreed at 11:00am, Cowboy Jack pulled a gun on me and said he'd fill me with lead if I tried to leave.

"He didn't let me leave until long after he shut up shop. I was forced at gun point to sweep the shop floor, check that all the records were in alphabetical order, and polish Jack's boots.

"I was denied food and water throughout the day, but fortunately I had a dozen or so unused stamps and was able to sustain my self by licking them when he wasn't looking".

Cowboy Jack appeared in court this afternoon. He rejected the opportunity to apply for bail, reasoning: "Why would I want to do that? I've got plenty of own hay."