Homage to the late, great Kirsty

Jul 2 2008 by Val Javin, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

I REFER to Barry Gibson’s column (Examiner June 25) and in particular his comments regarding the Pogues

I quite agree that the “drivel” from the Pet Shop Boys certainly did not deserve to keep probably the finest modern day Christmas song from a Christmas No 1.

However, with respect, I feel I must point out that the Pogues’ song featured the late, great Kirsty MacColl, maybe England’s finest female songwriter of all time. Kirsty seems to be remembered by many, singing about the chip shop and Elvis but little else.

Apart from her own songs, she had the ability to stamp her own style on others’ songs such as those of Billy Bragg not to mention the Kinks. Her wit and sarcasm shone through. I would recommend her “Galore” album for starters to anyone.

Kirsty’s father, Ewan MacColl, was well respected for bringing to light many classic working class folk songs including the Manchester Rambler (featuring a young Kirsty) and The Shoals Of Herring. She was truly a “chip off the old block”.

Maybe the Pet Shop Boys should revert to flogging dead horses and parrots - with apologies to the Pythons.

Jeff Beaumont

Honley