From Freda Wright
I would like, on behalf of
my family, to thank the clubs and individuals from the SCBA and
ECBA for their kind words and support since we lost Graham as
part of our family, especially Neil Jolly and Mick and Shirley
Watktins who came with me to West Suffolk and Addenbrooks.
His death was unexpected and
sudden and no doubt a shock to everyone who knew him.
I first saw Graham as a newcomer
to Suffolk, when I used to ride my horse past his house in Boxted,
little knowing that in a few short years he was going to become
part of our lives.
He advertised in the local
village magazine for a sponsor for the Hartest Triples Competition.
As my late mother used to bowl for Hartest, my son and I said
ok! I remember him turning up at my house in Hartest in the "shirt
and tie" with brochures, he said thank you for your offer
and to all our friends. The rest is history!!
From that day on, he became
part of our family.. helping to organise parties we held, to
raise funds not only for "charity" but even Brockley
Bowls Club, which we held at my home.. I think it was a race
night?
My son David loved coming home
from Holland to spend a weekend with Graham and friends. Graham
used to cycle up to Little Maplestead to help my daughter Susan
with her horses on a Saturday.
He was best man for my son-in-law
Ian when he married my daughter Susan in Durham and later godfather
to my grandson Thomas.. he always looked on him as his and as
soon as he was able to bowl he was taught how! He even played
at Blackpool! As many know he still bowls for Hoggards Green
in the winter, playing wicket keeper for Sudbury during the Summer
season.
We spent many happy years bowling
together and I will always remember his delight when, despite
selling raffle tickets at the English Pairs at Hemsby we made
it through to the last 16..the medal I have is very special!!
He loved Carpet Bowls and nothing
made him prouder than when he played for his County.. I must
have driven miles to watch in the early days, but now I can see
why. You are an amazing group of people. In recent years as Secretary
of SCBA you would always see him in "the shirt and Suffolk
tie" which he always wore with pride.
Once again, thank you all for
being there for us.
Love
Freda and Family
5th August 2014 |