MISSING . . .
‘ I’VE been feeling guilty for nearly 50 years and long to apologise to a wonderful man,’ writes Josie Howard, nee Buie, 66, a retired teacher.
‘When I was 18, I began going steady with a man in his mid to late-20s called Dave. I’m no longer sure of his surname, but I believe it might have been Ellis. He was ex-Merchant Navy and lived at home in Orpington, South-East London.
‘After a few months, I left home for university. That Christmas, Dad started a relationship with another woman. My devastated mum withdrew into herself. I was out of my depth and Dave threw me a lifeline, giving up his Christmas to drive us to a B&B in Gloucestershire.
‘Soon after, Mum committed suicide. As part of my university course, I had to spend time in Europe. When I returned several months later, I finished with Dave. I was not kind about it and have since regretted my selfishness. I was young, frightened and confused.
‘I feel I need to thank Dave for his consideration, thoughtfulness and unselfishness, and to say how sorry I am for hurting him. Until recently, I have blanked out this awful time in my life. I am married with children and grandchildren and live in Buckinghamshire.’