Review of Our Man Flint (1966) by Liam D — 10 Sep 2007

WHEN Hollywood tough guy James Coburn was searching for treatment for his crippling arthritis... he headed for Bury.

The actor, who died from a heart attack on Monday, aged 74, delighted and amazed people in Bury and Bolton by spending several weeks in the area while he underwent treatment at an alternative therapy clinic in Walshaw.

But there was no big star behaviour from the mild mannered actor, who captured the affection of people as he and his wife went shopping and dined in local restaurants in the summer of 1995. Coburn, best known for his mean, moody roles in films like The Magnificent Seven and the Great Escape, had suffered for years from excruciatingly painful arthritis which left one hand crippled.

But he managed to overcome the illness four years ago, claiming the pain had gone due to taking sulphur based pills.

It was while seeking help for his condition that he visited a Walshaw based clinic, which no longer exists, run by American Evangolos Rapsomanikis.

For several weeks he stayed at the Bolholt Hotel in Walshaw and the Last Drop at Bromley Cross and became a familiar figure in the area.

He and his wife were spotted browsing in Bolton's Market Place and several restaurants received a visit from him.

He was particularly taken with Italian eatery Carmelo's in Tottington, with the Coburns and their friends dining there seven times.

"He was a very, very pleasant man," said owner Bilardi Carmelo. "He would walk in wearing a pair of shoes without socks -- a typical American.".

Mr Carmelo said he was saddened by the news of his death and remembers his visits fondly.

Coburn, who starred in over 100 films, enjoyed tucking into plates of pasta and salads and would round the meal off by puffing on cigars.

"A big star like that you don't see very often. But he was not stuck up.

"He came across as a very nice chap. I was very glad to meet him," he said.