Tommy was a charismatic, funny, controversial, outspoken, kind, hospitable, generous, warm hearted, brave and loyal special friend with a larger than life personality.   He was a proud Yorkshire man who loved the outdoors whether it be walking the dogs, shooting, fishing, hunting or helping to build point to point fences.   His strength of character was awesome and helped him overcome the many challenges and setbacks which he faced throughout his life.   He always bounced back from adversity with renewed determination.  

He was a devoted family man and coped, with characteristic enthusiasm, with the logistical difficulties of being so far away from Anna, Sarah and their families.   He loved his trips to Australia and NZ and spending time with the girls, his son-in-laws and his precious grandchildren.  

We will miss him and our children will miss him too.   We, as a family, have many happy memories of fun times with Tommy mostly on the farm whether it be playing football (resulting in a trip to A & E on one occasion), clay pigeon shooting, messing about in boats, playing croquet or just chatting round the BBQ.   Yes, as I think Sarah has commented, we were often late and for that, Tommy, we apologise!! 

Our nights out at the Aagrah for a curry will never be the same without him.   How he loved the buffet.   Curry of course, but he was triumphant when he discovered that, rather bizarrely, sticky toffee pudding was often one of the dessert choices.  

Anne and Tommy made a great team and we are grateful to her for being his partner and friend for the last ten years or so of his life.   Each faced health issues but were a tremendous support to one another.  

We cannot believe that you have gone, Tommy, but thank you for being such a fantastic friend over the last 50 years.   We had fun and you have left us with so many happy memories.  Give our love to Margaret and Thomas.   How Jeannie still misses her friendship, advice and a shoulder to cry on.  

God bless.  

Bill, Jeannie and family.