Apparently my Granddad would have been 100 today and the family have been sharing their stories and memories of him so here are mine:

I think my memory would have to be Granddad’s hands (apart from the incredible head of hair, of course, still black well into old(er) age!). I remember holding his hand when out on day trips and can picture just how tiny mine would be in his; big bear like paws which seemed rough and hard working but smooth at the same time. I think he even used to let me press the pads of each finger as if he really was a bear. Those fingers always looked so incongruous with the little china cups and saucers in which Nanny insisted the tea be served and I remember thinking Granddad would be much happier with a mug and wishing she would let him have one!

I, too, remember being taken trainspotting, although I wish I could remember details like my Uncle is able to recall. I do remember sitting in the car for long periods of time, parked up in the car park of Hayes station. And I certainly attribute my love of being on trains with Granddad. Travelling through Russia to Mongolia was all about the train journey for me and I would rather take the train to Penzance than be stuck in a car any day. I even chose to write one of my essays at university on Victorian train sheds – not a popular choice amongst my fellow students but no doubt down to that everlasting interest which Granddad had instilled in me.

My other snapshot memories would be ‘peppmint’ cordial, Granddad in the garage and one of my favourite presents ever – a little green torch, operated by a single AA battery, which he gave me. This was the first torch I ever owned – I loved that it wasn’t a typical ‘girl’s’ present - and, strange as it seems, could probably be said to have a lot to do with where I am today; for the first time, I could carry on reading books under the covers at bedtime when Mum and Dad had made me turn off the light! He must have known there was an English teacher in me somewhere!