ALAN WHALLEY'S WORLD

HERE'S a puzzler that might stump even the most eminent of Antiques Roadshow experts . . .

Reader Mrs J.Eden, of Clock Face Road, is seeking information about a remarkable clay pipe with a little tableau running along its six-inch stem.

She explains: "I am told the pipe was made at Rainford Potteries and it was given to my husband many years ago by an elderly gentleman who said at that time that it was very old."

And as well as being ancient it is certainly the most unusual clay pipe I have ever clapped eyes on.

The words "Police Station" are cast on the bowl which is in the form of a local lock-up, complete with a door and barred window.

Outside, perched on the stem is a burly bobby, just about to open the police station door while dragging along a fellow who looks as if he's swigged at least one over the eight.

Further down the stem are the drunk's three children, mouths open wide and crying over their dad's plight.

Says Mrs E :"The pipe is light brown in colour and has the words 'Made Abroad' stamped on the stem. So I presume that it had been intended for export.

"What I really want to know is if there are many of these pipes in circulation. Or is it a one-off."

ANYONE able to puff out a clue or two? Then please drop me a line at: Whalley's World, St Helens Star, YMCA Buildings, Duke Street, St Helens WA10 2HZ.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.