South Yorkshire Times January 8, 1949

Monkey Tricks

“Mickey” makes a break at Mexborough

Children in one of Mexborough recreation grounds on Monday were thrilled to have a new playmate; a very lively little fellow dressed in a grey woollen jersey, with a large red quotes M” on the front. But who was this sprightly young gentleman, and why was he so popular?

He was “Mickey,” a pet monkey’s belonging to 7 years old Anthony Holbrook, son of Mr and Mrs J Holbrook, of the Catholic Club Park Road, Mexborough.

The pet escaped from the garage in which he was chained, and lost no time in finding his favourites, children, who gleefully bore him off to the Park, whence he was rescued hour later by Mr Fred Timmins.

When I went to see “Mickey” on Monday afternoon (writes a ” South Yorkshire Times ” reporter) he was once more back in the garage, having a quiet little nap after the morning’s excitement. However, he soon woke up when he heard .Anthony open the door and greeted him with enthusiasm, leaping on to is shoulder and giving his hair an affectionate tug.

As ” Mickey ‘ gives audience to the large number of visitors every evening, he was in no way disturbed ‘by seeing a stranger, and after some hesitation, gravely shook bands, and then honoured me with highly complicated dance, involving some extremely clever acrobatics.

In view of his undeniable charm, it is not surprising that he receives frequent invitations out to tea. On these occasions he is dressed up in best clothes, including some paper hats presented by the Parish priest (Father E. Heeran), and sits with great delicacy and decorum. Although in no way faddy about his food, Prime favourites are nuts, dates, black grapes and cream takes!

Knowing Antony’s love of unusual animals (yes previously had a pet donkey!), His father brought “Mickey” home from Rotherham just before Christmas to be a big surprise for him.

Mrs Brooke said it would be an elephant next! And who knows?

At this rate it may not be long before Anthony as his own miniature menagerie.