We go back 60 years! Shantumama first saw me a plump 2yr old toddler. The first of any family, maternal or paternal to do so, with never a cross word, no demands but ever supportive. My joy was his joy, my pain was his pain & his only concern - how can I keep her smiling. 

He filled the vacuum left by my parents as much as possible. 

My chershed memories are of holidays in Manchester, Edinburgh, Mertyr Tydfil, & especially the road trip to Paris in 1975. Christmases in Manchester when he invariably had to run to A&E because there was yet another pile up on the M6. Stories of him teaching my Father to drive. The sheer pain on his face when asked to take a blood sample from my mother, his beloved Chordi when no one else could. "You really want me to prick my sister with a needle?". The treasure trunk of memories & stories will be our companion now while you rest in peace. Your job done!! 

My sons will miss listening to your endless fascinating stories. I will miss the comfort of always having you nearby.

You will be so very sorely missed, Shantumama ❤️🙏❤️