In memoriam

Peter Curtis Grimes

Died 10^th December 2002, aged 75 years

From the address by his fellow freemason, John Howell:

“I would like to share with you a few thoughts about my friend, Peter. He was a good friend to many. As I am an only child, I was proud to be able to call Peter my brother. He always met you with a beaming smile and a firm handshake.

He did not have an easy life. Born on 22^nd April 1927, he went to Peter Symonds’ School in Winchester. Unfortunately his education was interrupted when he contract tuberculosis and he spent some years in recovery. He was not a well man foe some time, and we must be thankful that he had such a good life, largely due to the skill and care of his wife, Mary.

His career started in the motor trade in Winchester and he later moved to Rolfe’s of Romsey. He became a transport controller with the Hampshire Police and on his retirement joined the R.S.P.C.A. part-time in a similar capacity. Peter then assisted Mary in her successful champion kennels and established a thriving business in wholesale dog foods, which his son, Anthony, now runs.

Peter became a Freemason in 1959 in Old Symondians Lodge No. 5734 in Winchester and, later, in King Alfred Lodge in Romsey. He was also a member of other degrees. Ariel Lodge welcomed him into its ranks in April 1984 and he persevered through the various offices with his usual dedication until he became Master in 1994. He did not find the work easy but determination carried him through, and at the end of his year in office he received great acclamation from his brethren.

In 1997 he accepted the office of almoner, a duty he performed with skill and enthusiasm. His unfailing friendliness and care gave support to any of his colleagues who were sick or in trouble and he always remembered our ladies whose husbands were no longer with us. This valuable work was recognised when, in July 2002, he was granted Provincial rank and I had the pleasure of seeing him installed in Southampton.

A few days ago I heard a reading from a piece written by the Dalai Lama. The following is an extract from it, which, I believe, describes Peter to a tee:

“ The essence of all religions is love, compassion and tolerance. Kindness is my true religion. When you are motivated by kindness it does not matter what your profession is. Whatever your field, deep down there is a kind person. The clear proof of a person’s love of God is when that person shows a genuine love to fellow human beings.”

We shall all miss Peter but I am sure that he has heard the words that we all wish to hear when this life passes away – ‘Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Enter into the joys of the Lord.’ ”

Mary Anthony and Mel would like to thank everyone for their support, cards, kindness and donations to the Countess of Brecknock hospice. It has all meant a great deal to them, and our love and prayers continue for them now.

Longparish Toddlers

Just a quick ‘Thank you’ to everyone who has come along to support the new group. We have had 15 children with their mum or granny each week. What a fantastic response considering the first week it was snowing heavily and the second pouring with rain!

We meet every Wednesday (term time only)

10am – 11.45 in Longparish village hall.

Hope to see you there.

Friends of Longparish School 100+ Club

Congratulations to the Christmas winners:

1^st prize £100 Mark Skinner

2^nd prize £50 Graham & Kim Andrews

3^rd prize £25 Gabrielle Dryden

4^th prize £15 Tina May Ogilvie-Graham

5^th prize £15 Ray & Gwen Budd

Thank you very much to all those who have renewed their membership. We do also need new members. The 100+ Club is a major contributor to fundraising, enabling the school to buy much needed equipment and to help with school trips etc. If you would like to join, the annual membership is just £12, and draws are held monthly, usually at the senior citizens’ lunches at the school.

Please contact Debbie Skinner, 8, Hurstbourne Priors on 01256 895013 or pick up a form at School. Cheques should be made payable to F.O.L.S.