Ma Pardoe's loses former landlord, 86

A popular former landlord of the Black Country's famous Old Swan real ale pub has died at the age of 86.

Sid Allport was licensee at the Netherton pub, known locally as Ma Pardoe's, from 1980 to 1984.

A keen gardener and a previous captain of Netherton Cricket Club, Mr Allport died at Russells Hall Hospital in Dudley, after an operation last month. Friends said he had enjoyed a "good innings" and would be fondly remembered.

Born and bred in Netherton, Mr Allport left school at 18 and worked as a welder making bombs in the Second World War. The father-of-two of Recreation Street, Netherton, retired from Glazebrooks in Peartree Lane in 1974 and moved into the pub trade at Ma Pardoe's, taking over the reins six years later.

Daughter Helen Voss, aged 53, said many regulars would be saddened at news of her father's death.

"He really enjoyed the pub and the customers thought he was great," she said. "He got on well with everybody and never said a bad word, never swore in his life. He was the perfect gentleman. I can't believe he's gone."

Mr Allport played as a left-handed batsman at Netherton Cricket Club from 1947 and was made skipper of the side in the 1960s.

He spent much of his free time in the garden, growing all his plants from seed. He also enjoyed a game of bowls, Mrs Voss, a staff nurse at Russells Hall Hospital, added.

Friend Alan Smith alias Black Country comedian Aynuk said: "Sid had a full life. Yes, he will be sadly missed by wife Jan, his children and grandchildren and so many friends.

"However the legacy to those who were fortunate enough in knowing him is the memory of a true gentleman who was highly-respected in the community and had a good innings."

Mr Allport had returned to Ma Pardoe's for his 80th birthday celebrations with family and friends.

A funeral will be held at Netherton Church at 1pm tomorrow, before a service at Gornal Crematorium.