Sad times

To those of you who were kind enough to ask why I had apparently and suddenly stopped this blog, it's really only because for the last few weeks my attention has been very much elsewhere.
My father, David, who some of you knew, was ill for a few months but at the beginning of May was taken into hospital. Sadly, he never made it home again and died on June 12th. The funeral was last week and he would have been proud of the send-off. The church was packed. 120 bottles of wine were bought and 120 bottles of wine were drunk. He was a great man. I put together a few words on behalf of the family which were handed out as people left the service, which are reproduced below.
To those of you who sent such kind words, cards, calls, love and prayers, I can't thank you enough.


A tribute to David
WERE David able to see us today he would no doubt be thrilled that so many of his friends had come along to say farewell.
In the difficult days since he left us we have been so touched by the cards, messages, letters, visitors and telephone calls. It has served to prove, if proof were ever needed, how much he touched the lives of everyone he met.
He would light up a room just by walking into it, with his charm, quick-fire wit, exhaustive enthusiasm and infectious personality. That often masked his sensitive side, a genuineness and generosity of spirit. He couldn’t say no to anyone or anything, even if he knew he should have. Once you were his friend, you stayed his friend.
A true Englishman, his home was his castle, and anyone who called to visit, day or night, was made welcome, normally with a glass or two.
Most of all though he was a family man. That he welcomed friends of his sons and daughters as if they were his made 34 Heathhurst Road such a happy home. A house of laughter and joy.
You will all have your own memories: a friend, neighbour, drinking buddy, joker, piano player. Or just someone who gave of himself to whatever you needed.
For a man who so loved life, the last nine months were so hard for him to comprehend, but he bore his illness with dignity and strength; he never lost his spirit, his fight, or even his sense of humour. He would, in those final days, smile with his eyes. And smile he did, right to the end.
David may not be with us anymore, but he lives on among us. Through his children and grandchildren; through his wife; through his many friends.
Through those who have been touched by his extensive charity work. Many will not know his name, or know his face, yet they will benefit from his work and kindness long into the future. His being will echo down the years.
David lived a wonderful life to the full, and we thank you for sharing it. His departure will leave a chasm in our lives that can never be filled.
He loved, and was dearly loved. He will be sorely, sorely missed.
With our love, Tricia, Chris, Nick, Tori and Robbie
David Britten. 25.07.39 – 12.06.09