Dear Peter I want to let you know how much I have appreciated knowing you. You became such an important part of my life, and for that I will always be grateful. 1 Thess 1 v2-3 sums this up for me: I always thank God for you and continually mention you in my prayers. i remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labour prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. (amended slightly) You gave me the opportunity to enjoy the best ever ministry experience of my entire working life. Through you I was welcomed into the heart of a church tradition that was not my own, and treated as a valued colleague and brother. I had a lot to learn and sometimes the people issues were challenging, but you were always accessible, always patient and full of wisdom. There was never a day in the 7 years I worked with you when I did not want to go to work You led a good team very well allowing each person the room to make their own mark and contribution. I have no doubt that the cameraderie we all felt was nurtured and modelled by your approach to each of us. There are many happy memories of our team at Church House: - Winey Friday, the lunchtime pool challenge (going for the 'Reiss' shot – surely never just a hit and hope?),and of course my final day and the crazy golf. I also remember that early on I was the 'rapture indicator'...as long as I arrived in the office, it hadn't happened, though I think you soon realised we were all going to be in the same boat. My dear Peter, it looks like you will be in glory before I am. Through all of this, your love for God, your faith in Jesus, and care for people, has been inspirational to me and many others I'm sure. You will be greatly missed. We will meet again. (Maranatha, come Lord Jesus) with much love your brother and colleague in Christ Jesus.

"He cannot comprehend the flowers That carry so much love, Nor see the faces watching him For every tiny move. He is in passing To another element: And all we know for certain is that love engendered him, And will. please God, ensure His safe arrival."

Many thanks to the staff at Bolton Hospice for the compassion and skill they have shown in caring for Peter. He was remarkable for his stoicism, peace, and clear-eyed realism, and having great support from family and carers was a huge help.