THE 60th anniversary of the end of the Second World War has thrown up some remarkable stories of courage, sacrifice, tragedy, and comradeship.

Many were relived yesterday as veterans gathered to mark the anniversary of VJ Day.

Today, we especially feature the experiences of former Sunderland and Middlesbrough footballer Sam Purvis, whose skills with a ball helped save his comrades.

After decades of refusing to tell his story because of the harrowing memories it contains, Sam was finally persuaded to have it recorded in a book written by his nephew Ray Watson.

Mr Watson, from Hartlepool, is to be congratulated for his persistence because it is the kind of inspirational story which will help keep the spirit of remembrance alive.

Research undertaken by the Royal British Legion has revealed that only two per cent of children between 11 and 18 could correctly identify the date of the VJ Day anniversary.

It is a sad and worrying statistic because the extraordinary efforts of the men and women who served in the Far East should not be underestimated or forgotten.

Hopefully, books such as Mister Sam - telling the story of how football made the difference between life and death - will play a part in raising the awareness of a date which has such an important place in our history.

Drawing comfort

BEFORE we all get too down-hearted, just ask yourself this question: When was the last time you saw the Australians wildly celebrating a draw with England?