I arrived in Hildenborough in August 1948, hot-foot from Belfast where I had been born some 3 years earlier.  Gillian and I met just outside my house in Hill View Road and I have never forgotten her first immortal words to me: "Why do you talk so funny?"  Although not in the Ian Paisley league of Northern Irish accents, I obviously had one that Gillian had never heard, and which excited her curiosity!

Another, equally memorable incident occurred, again just outside my house, when Gillian said that she was thirsty.  Our devilish little neighbour, Simon, offered to get her a drink of water which Gillian duly drank.  As soon as she had finished it Simon announced: "I got that water from the toilet..."!!

Dear Gillian, I do miss you; may you find rest and peace where you are now.