THE American GI's memories of the Royal George Hotel in the 1940's stirred my own recollections of the hotel in the 1930's when it was run by Godfrey Leighton and his wife Rae.

He was a suave, portly man with glossy black hair and a pencil moustache, who demanded perfection in everything.

His huge, gleaming American car was chauffeured by Bert Walton, who had to paint the white-walled tyres each week to keep them immaculate.

The hotel reflected those flawless standards, which made it Cheshire's premier choice for fashionable society events. My father, who managed Caldwell and Son's floral department, was in constant demand to create elaborate decorations for coming-of-age, engagement and wedding receptions, which all had to be personally approved by Mr Leighton, who, being Jewish, scrutinized the ballroom most particularly when a bar mitzvah was to take place there.

The lady guests at all these functions always wore corsages of fresh flowers so Dad was kept really busy.

One reception organised by the Women's League for Peace and Freedom was attended by the Princess of Ethiopia.

I still have the charming letter of thanks, which Dad received afterwards, and to show his own appreciation, Mr Leighton gave me a golden cocker spaniel puppy, bred from his own pedigree bitch.

Rae Leighton's sister was Minnie Green, who with her husband, Angelo, ran the Egerton Arms at Chelford and the family also had the Good Companions at Holmes Chapel.

Sadly, it has now been re-developed and the Royal George seems destined to follow it unless the planners insist that this important piece of Knutsford's heritage is reprieved and restored.

MRS E M WOOD

Parkgate

Knutsford