Arrived on these shores from Poland at the turn of the century. Penniless immigrants, they worked hard selling tailor’s trimmings – buttons, thread and the like. They eventually took a shop and lived above it with their growing family. 13 children were born but only 8 survived. They prospered and moved to a big house in Willesden and my grandmother, the oldest of the five daughters (who had wanted to study but had to work in the business) was married from there in grand style

Grandma and grandpa received a dowry and went into business but it failed as grandpa was too sweet and gentle to run his own shop and eventually they both went to work for a cousin which they did together for many years. Their only child married my father (also an only child) and they had 65 wonderful years together. Celebrating their 65th (and final) wedding anniversary with a party at The Gables.

Today we celebrate 46 years of marriage. I was 18 and Jeremy had turned 22 the week before the nuptials. We made the decision to wed on a Thursday and were married two weeks later! We had a luncheon for 60 family and friends on the day, then flew off to America for a road trip honeymoon

Returning to attend a cocktail party that our parents had arranged – for 350 of their friends and family. Who knew it would last? So far, so good! The grandchildren are the icing on the cake. Bless them in these difficult days. Bless all of us right now. Party postponed but maybe next year?