The wonders of the internet saved me. At the time, none of my field guides had a decent pic of a Redpoll. They all showed them with a huge crest and much redder.
if you don't already have a copy then order this book, it is the best available - http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/...m=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE&pf_rd_r=0GCT0K66JSAEWN1V6EYJ