Stigweard, sorry I have only just picked up on this one.

The Pelican - was that the pub?

No it wasn't a pub. It was a big advertising feature in those days presumably above an opticians. From my memory, it could be seen just as you came round the corner by Snow Hill Station in the direction of Great Barr. It may not have been a pelican, but certainly some bird with a pair of glasses on. It was most noticable at night, due to it being illuminated.

I suppose I was about 8 - 10 years old then which would have put it around 1955. Blimey now that does make me feel old :-)