WC AUGUST 19

Not a good start to the week. I have loved going to watch the productions of the First Act Theatre Company for nearly 20 years. They are made up of Island adults with learning difficulties. I have enjoyed watching the on-stage performances of one of their members, Colin Heber. Sadly he has recently passed away and I attended his funeral at the Crem on Monday. He was given a wonderful send off and the eulogy, written by his brother, Alan, summed up his life completely. There were a few laughs inside the chapel and at the wake – and Colin would have loved that. Colin (pictured) was such an inspiration to so many people. He did not have an easy life but he certainly made the most of it. Many of us will never forget his appearances as the dame in the First Act pantomimes at Shanklin Theatre.

Later that day I met a guy from Northwood for the first time and he has a fascinating story in his life of music. All could be revealed soon.

Received news that my new book is being printed this week. It will be on sale from Friday October 4. I will have a signing that morning at the County Press Newport. Other signings to follow will include Glyn Morgan’s, Shanklin, Busy Bee, Ryde, and Lake Garden Centre.

I love the Thursday morning coffee mornings at the East Cowes Methodist Church. We managed to go again this week and it’s always so nice to meet old friends from my early days at the Adelaide Grove chapel. Planning another visit with my latest book in early October.

I have completed a major feature for the County Press. This should be in the CP on Friday September 13.

Had a great finish to the week  on Saturday when I went to the IW Cricket Association’s Knockout Cup Final at Newclose between Newport and St Helens.  There were not as many there as were originally expected. Sadly, the County Press published the wrong date for the match. They had it down as Sunday September 1. I arrived a little late and was shocked to see that Newport were about 47 for 7. They recovered to make 124. It was nowhere near enough and the village side won by five wickets, due to a late whirlwind 46 from Mark Watson, in about three overs. I have friends in both camps and their seasons ended all square. Newport won the league and St Helens the cup. On this day, St Helens were worthy winners.