Two abiding memories from different centuries. About 1967/68, I remember the family meeting at our house when Uncle Tony had announced the intention of moving the family to South Africa. I think my Dad, Syd, had been tasked with trying to dissuade him! I was 9 or 10 and Helen & Susan were there and we were all confused-family gatherings were always in Wesley Street, not at 273 Bury New Road.

The second was Syd’s 80th birthday, in March 2011, when Uncle Tony & Auntie Rona made the very long trip from Colchester to Shropshire, even though Uncle Tony was clearly not very well. I was so moved by this wonderful gesture. This may possibly have been the last time the generation of Syd, Tony, Terry & Michael were together?

From the humble beginnings of Wesley Street, the extended family have all done well led by that generation. I remain eternally grateful to all of them, and trust Syd & Tony are reunited and sharing stories of Other Mam, Seamus, my Nana, Auntie Flo, Uncle Frank, Uncle Ted, Auntie Mary, Uncle Arthur, Auntie Jean, Uncle Tommy, Auntie Flo. They will be reunited too with cousin Pete, who I think about constantly.

Farewell Uncle Tony, rest in peace, we are all very proud of you. You will be sorely missed 💙💙💙

Much love from Andy, Helen, Ben and Sam