I have asked my family what they remember most about Graeme, and the word ‘funny’ comes up repeatedly. I agree. He always had a funny comment to lighten the mood and entertain. He was such a good guest to have at any gathering, very lively and full of energy, and he was an excellent cook and a very welcoming host. Sacha, Katie and Stefan all have lovely memories of events where Graeme was a key player. Stefan has memories of a day at Legoland with Will and Graeme. I remember that Graeme’s chief highlight was to shoot water pistols, accurately, at the occupants of rafts passing by on the water ride.  Eric remembers visiting the Stratford Armories with Graeme and the boys, and it was so much more fun when Graeme noticed that the artillery gun had no safety lock on the swivel mechanism. 

One year, I was out with Eric and my parents at a Christmas Eve carol service, phones off, while a ham roasted at home. Smoke started to pour out of the oven, so Sacha and Katie made an emergency call - to Graeme. He sorted out the ham and the oven, and I’m pretty sure he enjoyed eating a healthy portion later when the family came to dinner.  Luckily for us, the ham turned out well and I think Graeme forgot the reason for the smoke incident, which was, ahem, failure to keep the oven clean. 

We are fortunate to share at least three family camping trips where a Hazlewood tent was pitched.  There was a Forest of Dean weekend when Graeme single handedly set up camp next to us, for one night only.  Anna and Will  jumped out of the car and made a beeline for other tents containing children (in our group!).  We were in awe of Graeme’s orderly tent set up, bespoke cook stand and gourmet dinner pre-prepared. We made do with sausages and chicken burned on a disposable BBQ (now I come to think to it, clouds of smoke involved). 

There were other memorable family camping trips at Croyde Bay, with Lorraine too. The first involved sunning ourselves on the beach, and group dinners in the evening sun with Graeme helping me pour champagne the correct way (I need to be told). The other involved gale force winds and early departures by some, due to tent failures and no dry clothes. Fortunately we have a video, thanks to Katie, which includes Graeme giving his cheerful and unhelpful weather forecast as the gale is picking up and tents are starting to keel over. 

We all miss Graeme. He leaves a huge gap. We can’t imagine how Lorraine will manage without her rock and soulmate. We know that somehow, eventually, you will manage to go forward, Lorraine, and so will Anna and Will as they all support each other.  Friends are always here too, for all of you.