My Father, Brian, was a selfless man who spent his life helping and supporting others. He was chivalrous and a true gentleman, who always wore a cheeky smile, had a wonderful sense of humour, usually delivered with a sparkle in his blue eyes. He was a lovely man, and we all thank him today for sharing his life with us. He travelled the world when he worked for ICI and always told the most fascinating stories about his journeys. One hobby, when he was younger, was acting as a marshal at Oulton Park racetrack, and he had the honour of bringing the legendary Jim Clark’s Lotus car back to the pits , which clearly my dad had some fun with. So much so a chap turned up at our house in Barnton in a Rolls Royce, when Lotus sent a babysitter and/or zookeeper to look after me. The chap wanted to take my parents out to make a job offer to Dad. His name was Colin Chapman, Owner of Team Lotus. Daddy declined (because) he was too worried about his wife and baby ……as I mentioned a selfless man. To me Dad was close to perfect. But, not totally perfect. His short game was unpredictable and when he used to come out of the locker room at Lytham Green Drive Golf Club and walk to the 1st Tee, I could always tell Mum had not colour coordinated or dressed him. Dad loved a good meal, especially shared with friends and certainly if gravy or pies were involved. He didn’t really enjoy vegetables or salad, he always said he preferred to eat what that looked over the farm gate not grew under it. ……And by the way, he passed most of these genetic defects along to me. He taught us what it means to be a wonderful Son, Husband, Brother, Father, Uncle, Great Uncle and friend. He was firm in his principles and supportive as we, his loving family, began to seek our own ways. He encouraged and comforted, but never directed. We tested his patience and I know I certainly did at times. Even when Uncle Stewart’s toy Spitfire bombed Dads wooden aircraft carrier, when the brothers were very young, he always responded with the great gift of unconditional love. Well, Dad – we’re going remember you for exactly that and so much more. Yes, we are going to miss you. Your decency, sincerity, and kind soul will stay with us all forever. So, through our tears, we are all blessed to have known and loved you – a great and noble man, and the best father a daughter could have. In our grief, we must smile, knowing that Dad is hugging his Brother Stewart, and holding his Mother and Father’s hands again. Finally, and most importantly, every day of his 66 years of marriage, Dad taught us all what it means to be a great husband. He married his sweetheart Iris. He absolutely adored her. He laughed and cried with her. He was dedicated to her and she to him. Good night and God bless Dad.

Speak of me as you have always done. Remember the good times, laughter, and fun. Share the happy memories we've made. Do not let them wither or fade. I'll be with you in the summer's sun And when the winter's chill has come. I'll be the voice that whispers in the breeze. I'm peaceful now, put your mind at ease. I've rested my eyes and gone to sleep, But memories we've shared are yours to keep. Sometimes our final days may be a test, But remember me when I was at my best. Although things may not be the same, Don't be afraid to use my name. Let your sorrow last for just a while. Comfort each other and try to smile. I've lived a life filled with joy and fun. Live on now, make me proud of what you'll become.

Thank you for setting up this memorial to Brian. We hope that you find it a positive experience developing the site and that it becomes a place of comfort and inspiration for you to visit whenever you want or need to.