JUST an update to the column written by Fly In The Ointment re Bally Anne Day (Warrington Guardian, August 16).

I grew up in Warrington and my mother always used to use the phrase Barley Hand Day for the day before pay day, when money was tight and it was slim pickings on the table.

I’m not sure if this is the right version as I’ve looked at other people’s explanations for this expression and I’m wondering if it was originally known as Belly Hand Day, when everyone rubbed their bellies to stave off the hunger.

JEAN SULLIVAN Newton-le-Willows