I first met Ivan when he was 7 years old and I was aged 5. We both lived at Sherburn Terrace, Consett. We both went to the same school. We played together at Ivan's house with his mother, Lena, often having to stay for tea. After 4 years living at Sherburn Terrace I moved away and so lost touch with Ivan. In later years I kept in touch with Ivan's parents, knowing later  that Ivan had joined the RAF.  Through  correspondence after I joined the RAF and when stationed at Singapore, Ivan's mother wrote in reply to one of my letters that Ivan was also stationed there and made arrangements for us to meet. 

We spent almost 3 years going to places of interest and it was then that I noticed his love for the Orient. He arranged a holiday for both of us to go and stay in KL with the Methodist Minister.We were both working at different RAF Stations but spent many an evening in Singapore visiting places of interest, especially the "Worlds" watching Chinese plays, not understanding, but enjoying them.  After demobilization and returning to UK, we kept in touch as much as we could. Ivan will a big loss to Jean and her family and his many friends. Rest in Peace. fondest memories, Wilf.