Dear Lizzie,

MANY years have passed since I came to visit you on Sunday afternoons in the summer. Once Dad mentioned the annual visit, I borrowed Mom’s bicycle and we both cycled the five miles to your house. Even though we arrived unannounced, I will never forget your hearty welcome.

As soon as Dad got talking to the older people, you and I got busy. First we picked the apples from the old Bramley tree in the garden. I peeled and chopped. You made the best apple pie I have ever tasted. While this was baking in the ‘Stanley’, I was free to join up and play games with the younger children.

Once we played hide and seek. I hid in the barn only to come face to face with a greyhound that had been locked up for the day. Lucky I was found before I started screaming for help. All too soon you called us inside for the delicious apple pie.

You never married and your life was one of caring for the elderly. The big event each year was the carnival. The big tent set up in the field across from your house. How you loved listening to the showbands as the dancers gathered from far and near.

After the dance you welcomed and entertained the band members with a hearty meal.

Over the years you met all the band members. They became your friends.

On my last visit you generously picked a bunch of wild flowers from your garden and gave them to the delighted children. You were such a caring, generous person. I want to thank you for all those happy memories of Sunday afternoons all those years ago.

Your friend Sally. Name and address with the Editor