August 1930 - May 2020

This collection is being made in memory of our beloved father who passed away on the 29th May 2020.

All who knew Gerry (or Geraldo after a couple of wines) will be aware of his love of sport. Be it watching, playing or his “informed commentary“. Even when not at home the need to watch or read about sport was turned into a sport itself, be it the daily hunt on the tiniest Greek Island for a newspaper with the football results or the even more challenging task of finding somewhere showing a particular Preston North End match.

Being told he couldn’t learn piano as a child he became convinced he would be a professional footballer and his early days of playing the game sounded hard. Sloping pitches, leather balls made heavier when soaked through with rain and even tales of nails in the soles of his boots in place of studs.

In the navy at age 16 and a non swimmer - he learnt quickly as the drill was to swim under the ship and hopefully emerge the other side. 

From the physicality of tennis, squash, and in his youth, body building to the great outdoors with intrepid mountain climbing, rambling and skiing dad loved it all. And it didn’t stop there snooker, darts, cards, backgammon and dominos were also on the agenda. If there was a game to be had, he would be there.

Taking up Golf in 1992, he famously hit a Hole in One on a new course in Munich the week before a brand new BMW was up for grabs for the same feat.

When he retired and returned home to the Fylde Coast he continued playing Golf with gusto, as a very active member of Fairhaven Golf Club. He swapped climbing for rambling, with the Lytham St.Annes Rambling Club, and added crown green bowling, to his list of sporting skills. Always an active participant, his love of sport was matched by his contributions to many of the clubs’ committees as well.

His drive and determination has been an inspiration to us, almost as much as his love of life and his sense humour. The whole family will miss him dearly. 

We hope that by raising some money for The Lake District Search and Mountain Rescue we can honour his spirit and love of the great outdoors. We know he would want to support a team who will no doubt be especially busy this year as we all head to the hills this summer.  

Please join us in remembering this courageous and loving man. 

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