Veteran Hartlepool businessman's birthday boost after cancer scare

Jimmy Gettings, who runs La Mirage Picture Framing Shop, in Murray Street, Hartlepool, was invited along with partner Paddy Horsley to stay at Wynyard Hall by chief executive Paul Mackings.

Jimmy has recently recovered from a cancer scare which forced him to temporarily close his popular framing business at the back end of 2019.

A few weeks ago he started trading again ahead of his 80th birthday.

The Wynyard Hall boss invited Jimmy after hearing of his fightback from illness and his determination to return to work from Hartlepool radio presenter Paul “Goffy” Gough’s show.

Mr Mackings said: “I heard Jimmy’s story on BBC Radio Tees via Goffy’s weekend shows.

“The inspirational story really touched me when I heard how Jimmy was so desperate to get back into work and to start seeing his customers again.

“I have been in business for decades now and I fully understand how Jimmy would have wanted to have his routine back in his life.

“Ít is nothing short of remarkable that as Jimmy is about to hit the age of 80 years young he still has that drive and passion to keep trading.

“Jimmy joined us at the Wynyard Hall for a break and we made sure that he and his good lady Paddy Horsley enjoyed some special chill time with our team.

“It was a real joy to meet them both and I knew that I had made a good call as soon as we sat down for a chat. I admire people with drive and those that get up and make things happen for themselves.’’

Jimmy thanked Mr Makings and his staff for being “everything and more than I expected” and added: “Í have now gone back to my business working reduced hours after I have been through a most challenging time and my

partner Paddy, some special friends and my wonderful customers that have been alongside me for many, many decades have helped me to get through some tough times.’’