(In memory of

Tommy Noakes)

Oh Brum you’ve changed so often

Over the many years,

And you have brought me happiness

As well as many tears.

The old Bull-ring had such character

With its barrow boys and all,

And the muscle man wrapped up in chains

Who tried to beat them all.

One man lay on his back

With a slab placed on his chest,

And his mate would hit it with a sledge-hammer,

I think you know the rest.

The blind man selling matches

He was there for many years,

And ‘Holy Joe’ we all did know

Shouting out his prayers.

Yes Brum you’ve given me lots of fun

Especially as a boy,

And now you’ve changed just once again

And your buildings reach the sky.

But I wish you well new Brummagen

Go forward as you will,

Because I am a true Brummy man

And I love you still.

It’s many years since I’ve been away

And in my prayers you’ll stay

And I will always love you ‘Brum’

Until my dying day.

Bob Lowe,