When I told JD what had just happened and that Eric was staying behind until we were finished, my mate was as quick as a flash and shouted across the room; “Here Barry, if the big lad is stuck for a lift home, me and Chalkie (that’s me) will take him. We’ve the car parked outside, so it’s no bother to us.”
Barry shuddered at the thought of letting Eric get into a car with the two of us. I am sure Barry was thinking, ‘Those two will take him back to the hotel and probably try and talk Eric into going back to Carryduff on the coach with them.’ I must admit the thought did cross our minds… well, the hotel part anyway.
Barry quickly replied, “Does your insurance policy cover you for a £5 million loss?”
JD turned and looked at me and said, “Chalkie, does my policy cover me for £5 million?”
I replied, “Dunno mate, you’d need to check the small print.”
It was like a scene from Only Fools and Horses when Rodney told Del Boy, “I am a good salesman,“ and his brother replied, “Do me a favour, Rodney! You couldn’t flog a black cat to a witch!” JD and I couldn’t flog our offer to Barry to take Eric home.
John White is a founder member and the Branch Secretary of Carryduff Manchester United Supporters’ Club. His new book Manchester United: The Making of a Football Dynasty: 100 Great Matches – 1878-2021 is out now.
