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P-A (Paul-André Blundell) Tributes The following tributes have been saved from the original web site which was set up by PA's brother Steve to enable people to leave messages and keep abreast of PA's recovery progress during the period that PA was in the Salisbury Hospital Spinal Unit. It continued for some while after Paul-André died but due to circumstances beyond our control was ceased so we have reproduced the information here as a record of people's thoughts and wishes. With thanks to all the friends who were kind enough to leave messages throughout a very difficult time for our family, thank you all.
Should you wish to add your personal tribute or update the wording of an existing tribute please just get in touch, Contact Us This is where people are able to share their memories and thoughts about PA. Name: Keynsham Krew What would you like to say? Still thinking, still hurting. Nothing has changed. You are still seen as irreplaceable, both on and off the field. ~~~ Name: Anya Leaver Where do you live? What would you like to say? Last night I woke up in the middle of the night and thought of you PA. I'm sorry that it has taken me more than a year to write, I've been meaning to before now, for ages, but at We met, about 5 years ago, you were a "drug rep friend" of my then flat mate Dave Burling and Ali Kerr. You took us out for dinner to the Bath Tub, and managed to get your car locked in the car park so you came back to our flat at the hospital. The plan was to just go home and sleep, but we ended up drinking red wine and rum until the small hours. You ended up getting a cab home at about From then on we ended up having regular dinner parties, usually at my Russell Street flat, but taking it in turns to cook, you, Dave, Al, Becky (Vines), Sarah (Hickey) and me, quite a gang in those days. I remember being surprised at how good your cooking was, a real Jamie Oliver! These evenings invariably involved lots of alcohol and lots of fun, often as not ending up at a Doctors' Mess party or Po Na Na's. One day when the builders were round we ended up partying on the incompletely constructed scaffolding outside the sitting room windows! Not the most sensible of things given that it was on the 2nd floor, but it didn't stop lots of random other passers by joining us! I remember too, being dragged out of work with you one lunchtime, when I was an SHO at the Min, you with shades on to hide a black eye and stitches from a rugby injury, while we went on a quest to get a last minute birthday present for Emma, your then girlfriend, you had wanted some girlie advice on the matter. You law abidingly bought a parking permit but managed to scratch off the wrong bit and so ended up getting a parking ticket, so although you got out of one scrape it was into another! After your accident, Robin, (my now husband) and I drove up from ~~~ Name: Chris Short Where do you live? What would you like to say? Some of my fondest memories of PA were during the holiday to For those not aware Nat Hill (OSH) is running the London Marathon in order to raise money for Trust PA. Anyone wishing to sponsor Nat can reach him at nathaniel@hill207.fsnet.co.uk ~~~ Name: Kerry Walker Where do you live? What would you like to say? Thinking of you today - a year on, especially this morning whilst tackling a 10 mile run in the rain. Remembering your incredible strength and determination and the laughs! My thoughts as always, are with your family and friends. ~~~ Name: Anne Kent Where do you live? North East How do you know PA? Auntie Annie What would you like to say? I have so many wonderful memories of PA but mostly what sticks in my mind is his energy and enthusiasm, his sheer passion for life, never wasting even a minute. Due to living in the shadow of Hadrians Wall I didn't spend as much time with Steve and PA as I'd have liked, but I've always loved them and been so proud to be their Auntie, so gifted and handsome too! I send as ever my love to my big bro. Bob, Gerri, Steve, Helen and the girls. Till we meet again A x x x Name: Keynsham Krew What would you like to say? Nearly a year. Still hurting. Still missing,but still smiling every time we think of you. ~~~ Name: Katia Matthews Where do you live? What would you like to say? My fondest memories of PA are from when we were children. We didn't meet very often but I remember him as a small boy with a face like an angel and a beautiful smile. I am truly privileged to have known him. ~~~ Name: Where do you live? Balham, What would you like to say? I recently found out about PA's horrific injuries and untimely death through the latest edition of the Old Foleyan, where I read Mr Jones' touching tribute. I was fortunate to have known PA from the age of 11 to 18 but would have liked to have known him more. When you spend so much time growing up in the same environment as someone else it becomes easy to gauge how other people view them. It has always been clear to me that everyone I knew regarded PA in the highest esteem and with great fondness and respect, as I myself did. And when I say everyone, I mean everyone I can think of, his peers - for whom he was a natural leader, for those younger - for whom he was a great role model, for those senior, his teachers and tutors - who must have been able to identify his special qualities much more easily than most of the rest of us who just knew that he was PA and that he had always been that cool and always would be He was a good friend to everyone who knew him. Its difficult enough to lead your life according to strong principles but to openly lead your life in such a manner and in so doing become a role model for so many others inspiring them to do the same is even more difficult. PA did that and I guess did so without even knowing the effect he had on others, he was just being PA. I remember the conversations we shared and the depth of his character, I remember his thoughtfulness, kindness and gentle spirit and above all the fact that he was always happy, (which made those around him happy). The Bible teaches us that... 'the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith...' [Galatians (ch5v22)] PA had all of the above qualities in spades, I feel blessed to have known him. I feel sure that had I known him more his presence would have helped me become a better man that I am today. As it is I shall think of the qualities he possessed and espoused when I seek to guide my own children. My sympathies are to all. ~~~ Name: Vik Blai (Viki) Where do you live? What would you like to say? I found out about Paul's untimely passing through Mark Townsend, an old school friend of his. Mark was very upset in my flat one night and was telling me how he was going to do something enjoyable with his life, to live every second, like his friend PA. He told me about a funeral he had been to and what an incredible guy he had know and would always remember. He talked of a broad smile, a gentle kindness, proud parents, a talented rugby player, many close friends, and the sort of guy who would help people up rather than knock them down. I mentioned to him that he sounded a lot like a friend of mine who I used to play rugby with at Llandaff when I was 11 - only then did we realise it was the same man. I hadn't seen Paul for maybe 14 years, but I can still see his smile today, and I still remember that try he scored against the Grange in Monmouth, and believe me Adrian Evans was right when he talked of the snow. I think Paul had to do all the running himself as we had a 14 man scrum as everyone was trying to keep warm! - not Paul. I'm not sure if it was that game, but I shall always remember his father, with a broad smile, giving his son a warm hug as we walked out off the coach after a rugby trip, and it struck me just how proud they were - of each other. I didn't have the opportunity to spend as much time with him as some of the people on this site, but I truly wish I had. Nonetheless, he has still had an impact on my life as it appears that the warm-hearted 11 year old, didn't deviate, didn't get poisoned, but stood tall and really is an example to us all. Thank you Paul - we were the lucky ones. ~~~ Name: Richard Twiner Where do you live? Loughborough How do you know PA? What would you like to say? I only knew PA for two years at ~~~ Name: Chris Boroughs What would you like to say? Hope you had a great birthday mate, watching down on us all. Love, Chris ~~~ Name: Sean Wilkes Where do you live? Warfield, What would you like to say? I bumped in to an old boy of ~~~ Name: Sally Shannon Where do you live? How do you know PA? Through work as another drug rep! (There are millions of us) What would you like to say? This is the first time I have also looked at the web site (although heard about it through Alex) PA was one of the best and his death has affected so many people...I am sure like many of you I will think of him for many years to come.... ~~~ Name: Danielle Craveb Where do you live? What would you like to say? This is the first time I have had the courage to visit the website and I am only sorry I didn't do it before. PA was and still is one of my favourite people in the world. I was devastated to hear the tragic news, and deeply regret not getting the chance to visit after the accident. I have thought of that wonderful sense of humour & charm every day since. I have met few people with so many great qualities all rolled into one! PA -I will miss you greatly but will always remember. I still carry about those photos you'd always ask to see at conference - how typical of you to be thinking of other people! All my best wishes to PA's family, love Danie xx ~~~ Name: Kerry Where do you live? What would you like to say? I'll never forget the first time i met PA, it was in the gym and PA turned around and gave me a big cheeky grin, it was soon after that he became a huge part of my life for next 18 months. As well as being my boyfriend PA became my best friend, he made me realise i could achieve so much more, he gave me the enthusiasm for life i was missing and i will always have so much love and respect for him. PA was the kindest most generous person i have ever known who always put everyone else before himself. PA will always have a special place in my heart and the memories i have of our time together will always be the best and most precious. I miss him so much ......... what a fantastic guy! ~~~ Name: Ian Gray Where do you live? How do you know PA? I Knew PA through Steve from my time in Whitchurch and at What would you like to say? My thoughts are with you and the whole family. I am sorry i was not in touch sooner. Though many years since we have seen each other or spoken, I will always remember PA in the same way as so many have on the tribute page. A young man with a real passion for life, a completely positive approach to everything, kindness, humour, warmth and an incredible smile. You will be sadly missed by all but always fondly remembered. Ian ~~~ Name: Michael Shorey Where do you live? What would you like to say? PA was a great guy; I can still remember the time we met on ~~~ Name: Linda Durnall (chatroom host) Spinal Injuries Association Where do you live? Staffordshire How do you know PA? PA's brother Steve came into the Spinal Injuries Chat room soon after PA's accident and kept us up to date with his progress. We tried to send positive and encouraging messages to PA via Steve and also support Steve at this difficult time. What would you like to say? We are all devastated at the news of PA's death. He was so lucky to have such a wonderful brother and friends. Our hearts go out to you Steve and to your family ~~~ Name: Ben Lankester Where do you live? Axbridge How do you know PA? We met when we first moved to Bath, PA was just starting out as a rep. Jackie and I went out for a meal with PA, Ali K and Dave B to Bistro No 5 on Pulteney Bridge, and he became a friend immediately. What would you like to say? PA, you were a truly special mate. You've been taken away too soon, but you've left me with memories that will last for ever. If more of us had the energy, enthusiasm and loyalty that you so often displayed the world would be a better place. I will never forget you. ~~~ Name: Elaine Houpt
How do you know PA? I am a Nurse Practitioner on the Spinal Unit. Although I have been wanting to pay tribute to PA through this website I have held off for fear of failing to find the right words. Of course there are no 'right words.' It was simply my great privilege to have been a part of PA's team in hospital and to have come to know him as a friend. He touched my life the way he touched so many and the impact of that will be long lasting. Thank you PA for helping me to understand 'things' a little better. I miss you. xx ~~~
Name: Rob Blunt
How do you know PA? Lived in Foley House with him at Old Swinford; went to Cardiff Institute with him after leaving So many things to say, so inadequate they all seem. PA was a great man. It seems unreal that a man of his vitality is no longer with us. Being younger than him, I remember the awe in which he was held by the younger members of ~~~ Name: Simon Postlethwaite How do you know PA? Friend and Keynsham team-mate Words seem so inadequate. P.A. was such a fantastic and warm person. He was always laughing and smiling and making sure everyone else around him was happy. The way in which he responded to his terrible accident was nothing less than inspirational. I have so many fantastic memories of you P.A. take care my friend. Pos. ~~~ Name: Wayne Bannister When I think of PA, two things spring to mind. 1) PA the competitor. Indeed, the only man to show me a clean set of heels on top field, not once but annually every year for 5 years on sports day. The final event; inter house relay, 5 times I tried, 5 times I failed to beat the flying Welshman; he ran so much faster with that baton in his hand. For years I just couldn't figure it out, but finally I did. Being a part of a team, having people rely on him; PA would never let anyone down and never was this more obvious than on the 2) PA my friend. Memories of sneaking off down the pub whilst at ~~~ Name: Roger Caygill Where do you live? What would you like to say? PA, your ability to do what you think has been an inspiration to me and something that I wish I could do more often. ~~~ Name: Kathryn Harris Where do you live? What would you like to say? In the short time that I knew PA he showed exceptional strength in the face of such an extreme injury. Even on low days immediately after the accident he would make a point of asking how my weekend had been. In my experience there are not many people who can do this when they are facing what he did, such was his character. Although I have seen others with this injury I have learned hugely from working with PA. I will remember him as someone who, despite his youth, had obviously thought long and hard about 'life' and all that deep stuff; and he made me think - and made me laugh! ~~~ Name: Bethan Price Where do you live? What would you like to say? PA was a part of my life and I his for only a brief moment. It was many years ago, his cheeky grin and wicked sense of humour will be remembered always. ~~~ Name: Clive Williamson Where do you live? What would you like to say? I have happy memories of him in my classes. He was always a great pupil to teach and is one of the many pupils who make up my history here . . . . there was a fine group of pupils at the time PA was here and he leaves a gap that is hard to fill ~~~ Name: Kate Pick Where do you live? Warminster How do you know PA? I nursed PA in ITU at What would you like to say? PA was the nicest, kindest person I have ever had the pleasure to nurse. I have cared for many patients with spinal injuries but never one like PA. His sense of humour was wicked as was that grin, everybody who met PA liked him. To Rob, Gerry, and family. I was stunned when Clarkey told me the awful news; we'd just been talking to day before. I am so sorry, my heart goes out to you all, you have my number please ring me if you want to. Love Kate and all the staff from Radnor ITU ~~~ Name: Damian and Louise Griffin Where do you live? How do you know PA? By Rosemary and Ian Hines very close family friends to the Blundells What would you like to say? Sympathy to you Gerry, Bob and Steve ours prayers are for you. Lou and I only got to meet PA once back in 1993 with the rest of the family in Sunny Wales, sorry it was raining. PA was so friendly and sincere we talked about ~~~ Name: Adrian Evans Where do you live? How do you know PA? First met at What would you like to say? So sad to hear the news. PA was one of Life's Good Guys. I will always have two abiding memories of PA: One is the sight of him playing on the wing for the ~~~ Name: Martyn Dunn Where do you live? What would you like to say? Steve, I didn't. I know you (STS) and met your dad a couple of times when he was employed by BT. I saw you on the local telly news last week and was quite shocked by your dreadful news. Keep your pecker up and remember Mary! Martyn ~~~ Name: Mike Bourne Where do you live? What would you like to say? So sorry to Steve and family. Although PA was initially a cheeky little sod at school, he turned tail and was an absolute pleasure to have been in Foley with. Take care mate. ~~~ Name: Pia Where do you live? What would you like to say? Completely heart broken to learn that PA has died. He always amused me. He was also a complete sod - I am remembering the afternoon in Tescos (work time) - I'm shopping, there is an announcement over the tannoy asking for me to come to the desk - I freaked - how the **** does the boss know I am here? Meekly went over to the desk to find PA and John Bensusan laughing their heads off - thought they'd catch me out! Paul Andre - I shall always remember you with a great deal of fondness - you are such a special person and I'm going to really miss you. with love always Pia xxxx ~~~ Name: Stuart Where do you live? Midsomer Norton, What would you like to say? Dear PA Were all going to miss you mate! I don’t understand why you had to go, i can only imagine that the Big Man upstairs has some big plans for you! ~~~ Name: Mark Townsend Where do you live? What would you like to say? PA set the bar at our school. Those of us lucky enough to have known him have a standard to guide us no matter what we might do. PA was a sportsman of rare talent and a gentleman of exceptional caliber but I remember him particularly as a scholar. We revised together for our Biology A-Level, in Foley House library in the early summer of 1993. My approach was to open the folder, kick back and chat about anything but biology. PA on the other hand, had set goals with incentives if we achieved them, mini-essays, tests and scoring. I don't think I helped him one bit but on that occasion and others too numerous to mention, he certainly helped me. ~~~ Name: Adam Parkes Where do you live? Stourbridge How do you know PA? Through staff at What would you like to say? I never had the pleasure of meeting PA as he left ~~~ Name: Nat Hill Where do you live? How do you know PA? Went to school with him at What would you like to say? Thank you to Rob, Gerry and Steve for a lovely service and a chance to celebrate P.A.'s amazing, but too short, life with his family and many friends. It was fantastic to see that P.A. touched so many lives and that we all remember him in the same way. His energy and enthusiasm for life has inspired us all. "A light that burns twice as bright burns half as long". P.A. burned brighter than anyone else I know and his light brightened the lives of everyone he met and will continue to be with us forever. In every photo I have of P.A. from, school, holidays in ~~~ Name: Guy and Kate Francis Where do you live? Pirbright, How do you know PA? Through work initially, pure friendship thereafter. What would you like to say? Memories include HUGE bar bills at conference with work, stocking the home drugs cabinet with Rehidrat, Neurofen and Paracetamol before he came to stay, making me play the 4th hole at Beaconsfield Golf Club in a most unconventional manner having not got my golf ball to the ladies tee off point, my ribs hurting after half an hour of his company. Fantastic memories of an amazing individual who possessed the biggest smile in the South West. Huge appetite for life, huge appetite full stop. ~~~ Name: Cheryl Walker Where do you live? How do you know PA? Through Searle What would you like to say? The last time I saw you PA was in a McDonalds in a service station in ~~~ Name: Rich Coulthard & Cath Ashworth Where do you live? How do you know PA? Initially through work at the RUH, but always as a friend What would you like to say? PA's enthusiasm for life was infectious. We can't remember a time when PA was ever anything other than positive, energetic and genuinely pleased to see you. He didn't have a bad word to say about anyone. A true gentleman. Even in theatre recovery, coming round from his anesthetic, after spending several hours having his leg fixed, the first thing he said was "how are you?" I hope we can honour him by trying to live life in that vein. ~~~ Name: Rachel Edwards Where do you live? How do you know PA? I used to work at The Min and PA was always bursting through the door of my office to cheer me up. What would you like to say? Lots of love to you mate. I know you've gone to a better place. Thanks for calling me 'chick'! It always used to make my day. Love to your family, any words I have to say seem so inadequate. RachXXX ~~~ Name: John Bensusan Where do you live? How do you know PA? Friend and workmate What would you like to say? It has been a great privilege to have known PA, if only for such a brief time. He was quite the most amazing man, who I don't think ever slept - so much energy. A genuine people person. Rob and Gerri should rightly be very proud of him. God bless you mate. ~~~ Name: Chris Boroughs Where do you live? What would you like to say? PA made a difference to everyone that had the fortune to meet him. He possessed so many wonderful qualities that made him into an outstanding individual, who you are proud to say you knew. It was too soon mate. You will never be forgotten. Chris ~~~ Name: Chris Matthews Where do you live? What would you like to say? I only knew P.A slightly yet was always impressed by him. We all go though life hoping to make our mark, and to make a difference to others. It is both heartrending and obvious that P.A. made a difference to so many people’s lives. His family though hurting must and should be extremely proud of their son!! ~~~ Name: John Cashman Where do you live? What would you like to say? It has been an immense, but lamentably brief privilege to know PA. I can only recall happy and fond memories of a man who showed true kindness and friendship to so many. He will remain an inspiration to me as one who sustained unbridled enthusiasm for each day and in so doing enriched all of our lives. A true sportsman, gentleman and friend. Your touch has made the world a brighter place. ~~~ Name: The Receptionists @ Batheaston Medical Centre Where do you live? How do you know PA? He came as a rep into the surgery What would you like to say? Usually when a rep comes through the door our hearts sink because we're busy. When PA came it was always a pleasure to see him and to chat. He never demanded anything and was always good to work with. We will miss him along with hundreds of others and our thoughts & prayers are with his family. Susie, Nancy, Sam, Jackie ~~~ Name: Adrian Ballard Where do you live? What would you like to say? My first memory of PA was on the rugby field having been at ~~~ Name: Jeanette Hamilton Where do you live? What would you like to say? I am not surprised by the love for you PA, I am overwhelmed by it, but not surprised. My memories of you echo so many others, of your vitality, and of your zest for life. You once told me I was in a rare group of females who actually used the term "laws" in relation to the game of rugby. Our common bond being all things sport! ~~~ Name: Nicole Howse Where do you live? How do you know PA? I am a Bath GP, one of a group of 50 female GPs who participate in What would you like to say? On behalf of our group I would like to say how much we all liked PA and as previous guests have written, he will be missed by many different people and this is a great opportunity for us all to comment to you, his family. He always added humour to our events and we respected his knowledge and jokes. His injury was so tragic and losing him at a time where there was an emergence of his positivity was devastating. We are all thinking of you his family and his work colleagues and appreciate how we will all miss PA. ~~~ Name: Carwyn James Where do you live? How do you know PA? U.W.I.C. and Intimidating on the field, big hearted and even bigger smile off it. Thats how I will always remember you P.A. See you around mate. Caz ~~~ Name: Huw Lewis Where do you live? What would you like to say? When I was first introduced to you by Rod, I couldn't believe your enthusiasm for life; you were a true gentleman and a good old Welsh boy at that!. You had an immense character and I looked up to you in many ways - you were caring, dedicated and purposeful. I had the pleasure of spending hours of fun with you - through college, playing golf, training and on the social - those crappy junior set of clubs you still had into your 20's (you could only play with that 7 iron), us going to circuit training just to have some female attention and most of all you calling me 'Louie baby'. These are times I will treasure. You showed interest and a caring attitude in everyone's life, forever thoughtful. My deepest sympathies are with you Rob, Gerry and Steve - You brought up a legend and a top bloke. Thank you for being such a good mate P.A. and keep a seat up there for me!! Huw Lewis (a.k.a. Louie to P.A) ~~~ Name: Darren Sutton Where do you live? Malmesbury How do you know PA? worked and trained together What would you like to say? P-A, An inspiration to me from the moment we first met. Suffering with Ankolosing spondylitis PA inspired, coached and helped me regain my weight, my health and my fitness. I have many fond memories of conference drinking games and going to the gym afterwards. we have lost a true friend, my thoughts to PA's family. ~~~ Name: Jason Penny Where do you live? Surbiton How do you know PA? Work mate, Golf Buddy, Friend What would you like to say? P.A. was a man with ants in his pants. The man could not sit still for a minute. His zest for life was amazing. It didn't matter what time you rang him he was either on his way some where or in the middle of something. P.A. has probably lived more lives than I will ever. I have never meet someone with such a sense of fun. He enjoyed life to the full, and I am honoured to have played a small part in his life. He will be sorely missed ~~~ Name: Dale Wilkins Where do you live? Old Swinford How do you know PA? I was his Housemaster for his final year at What would you like to say? PA will be very sadly missed by all his many friends at ~~~ Name: Mikey Wilde Where do you live? What would you like to say? PA I will miss you deeply. Your enthusiasm for life was infectious. I remember our times in the gym and how I couldn't meet your expectations. But I will try my friend - I will try my best to live life to the full and get as much out of it as possible, which was very much your way. ~~~ Name: Dave (Doc) Ellis Where do you live? Stourbridge How do you know PA? Parent of two of PA's contempories at What would you like to say? PA you were one of those people who bring a zest to life. One of the finest and bravest rugby players I have met or seen. I have particular memories of the tours to ~~~ Name: Ali Kerr Where do you live? How do you know PA? Good friend & fellow team-mate at Keynsham RFC. What would you like to say? I'm unable to find enough words to sum up your amazing life-where do I start?. You managed to do more and affect more people's lives in 26 years than the majority do in a life-time. You certainly worked on a different time-table to us mere mortals-managing to achieve goals even when bigger obstacles were being put in front of you. ~~~ Name: Rob Cruise Where do you live? What would you like to say? PA touched so many lives in many different ways and its fascinating reading about the way everybody remembers PA. My fondest memories of PA will of course be on the sports field but also in the dormitory at school, using his bedside lamp as a microphone, singing with great passion along to his Bruce Willis tapes. Everything PA did was full of passion and enthusiasm and he will be sadly missed by all. I feel so honored to have known him. My deepest sympathies and thoughts are with his family at their time of such a tragic loss. My thoughts are with you always. Rob. ~~~ Name: Peter Tweed Where do you live? What would you like to say? It was awful to hear the tragic news about PA's terrible accident before Christmas. I wanted to visit him with some old friends but unfortunately the visit was cancelled due to circumstances on the day. I didn't manage to make a trip since, I wish I had. I always remember PA as a friend from school who was so full of life, loved a challenge and always gave his best. I had the pleasure of growing up with PA and living with the man for 7 formative years of his life. In living with someone for 7 years you really get to know them and it's great to know that he had the same effect on people's lives after leaving school as he did while I knew him. I, like many of the lads who loved sports, had great fun playing/competing with him in many sports and I admit, for a peer he really inspired me to compete longer, harder and to strive for something better. It was a moving moment over this Christmas to be browsing old photos with my family and find a picture of PA at aged 11 struggling up a steep road with a huge backpack on his back during a school holiday we shared in the Yorkshire Dales. It epitemised PA even at that young age, striving to overcome the challenges that stood in front of him. I will always remember PA - the boy, the man and the friend with great respect. Best wishes to your family PA, you will be missed! Pete (aka Sweed) ~~~ Name: Kate Kerr Where do you live? What would you like to say? P.A, Hello lovely! That's the way you always greeted me and it never ceased to make me feel warm and welcome and remind me of your kind, generous and open nature. ~~~ Name: Mandy Drew Where do you live? What would you like to say? I have slightly different memories of P.A to everyone else! Although I share many of their thoughts. I think I've probally treated P.A for almost every injury known to mankind!!! He was always on the phone wanting me to look at the next injury, he was always late for his appointments and he'd always come flying through the door, flash that winning smile at me and say 'I'm not too late am I?' knowing he was at least 25 minutes late, then proceed to tell me about 3 or 4 'new' aches and pains he wanted me to look at in the remaining 5 minutes!!! But you could never be angry or annoyed with him because that was P.A, trying to fit in a weeks work and activities in 1 day. ~~~ Name: Juliet Bailiff Where do you live? What would you like to say? Dear PA, Knowing you has enriched mine and so many peoples' lives. You have been an inspiration of how to live life to the full and I'm honoured to have been a small part of that very special life. ~~~ Name: Heidi @ Richard Clarke Where do you live? Coleford Glos. How do you know PA? Helen's Mum and Dad What would you like to say? We got to know P.A. after Steve started going out with Helen. We shall always remember their wedding and PA's part in it. He was best-man and he achieved the near impossible - he got Steve to the church on time! We thought then "this guy is special". To stand in front of 120 guests and give the best-man's speech off the cuff (his prepared speech was left in his broken down car) is daunting for anyone, let alone a 22 year old lad. But he got up, he did it and he did it brilliantly. ~~~ Name: Ali Whiteley Where do you live? What would you like to say? My thoughts are with PA's family and friends. He was a ray of sunshine and will be missed by all his friends at Pharmacia. ~~~ Name: Tina Meynell Where do you live? Sutton, What would you like to say? PA has played an important role in my life, for it was he who drove me to the hospital to give birth to my daughter Lauren. I remember going in to him at ~~~ Name: Dave Burling How do you know PA? From the early What would you like to say? I feel extremely proud to consider myself one of PA's friends. Reading the tributes has been a humbling experience. PA was one of life's greats and his passing will serve as a vivid reminder on how to prioritise the important things in life. He certainly lived life to the full and all who spent time with him are richer for it. He is loved by so many and I will miss him dreadfully. ~~~ Name: Alex & Sally Shannon Where do you live? Timsbury, How do you know PA? Met doing same job, different companies. Friends for life. What would you like to say? The PA we knew was the same PA we all knew, so gracious, so charming and so considerate. Since hearing the tragic news, every thought (from synchonised handbrake turns to cheeky chappie pint in hand) of you has caused a smile and a tear, you shall remain forever in our thoughts. They broke the mould when they made you dear friend, sleep well dear CELT. Rob & Gerri your boy was top drawer, our prayers are with you. Love Alex and Sally, Beth, Niamh & Katie xx ~~~ Name: Pritch Where do you live? Cyncoed, How do you know PA? Same year/course at College What would you like to say? Absolutely devastating news about a young man of immense promise who I will remember as an excellent sportsman, engaging individual and all round top bloke. Deepest condolences to all friends and family - my thoughts are with you all at this most trying of times ~~~ Name: Yvonne Dixon Where do you live? How do you know PA? I work at one of the many Hospitals PA visited. What would you like to say? PA unlocked the fullness of life, he turned what he had into more. Spending time with him was like sipping tea in the early morning sunshine, a pleasure to be embraced. Some folks inherit a gift of life, they light up the room with a smile, talk in a reassuring calming manner and your life is enriched for having shared their laughter. PA, you have found peace and created our memories for tomorrow. I shall miss you. Your Friend (mate) Yvonne xx ~~~ Name: Audrey Howard Where do you live? Buckinghamshire How do you know PA? Former colleague at Searle/Pharmacia What would you like to say? PA, Can't believe the news. You will always be in my thoughts. I will remember your lovely charming happy personality - not to mention that cheeky grin for always. Love Aud x ~~~ Name: Huw Wiltshire Where do you live? Penarth, Vale of Glam How do you know PA? Lectured PA whilst he attended UWIC What would you like to say? A really bad day at College when this sad news broke. I feel lucky to have known PA, during his undergrad days, and my respect for such a bright, committed, honest and above all, brave lad is total. Never forgotten by those who were lucky to have met you. Thoughts go to all of your family. Huw ~~~ Name: Rose and Ian Hines Where do you live? What would you like to say? We were privileged to have known you since you were a gorgeous little boy and through your devoted parents we have known of all your wonderful achievements. Our biggest regret is missing you on our last visit! You were very special PA and our beautiful memories of you will stay with us forever. Much love, Rose & Ian xx ~~~ Name: DARREN BRITTON Where do you live? KEYNSHAM How do you know PA? KRFC MEMBER, GOOD FRIEND What would you like to say? THE TIME I KNEW HIM ALL HE EVER DID WAS MAKE ME LAUGH, SMILE, AND ENJOY THE TIME WITH HIM. HE WOULD ONLY BE WITH YOU FOR A FEW MINUTES BUT THAT WAS ENOUGH TO MAKE THE NIGHT STAY IN YOUR MEMORY FOREVER. SLEEP WELL MATE, ALTHOUGH YOUR NOT HERE, YOU WILL NEVER LEAVE OUR THOUGHTS. CHEERS MATE DARREN AND HELEN BRITTON. ~~~ Name: Philip Keeling Where do you live? What would you like to say? PA was an inspiration to us all, he lived his life the way must of us dream. He was one of the happiest, active persons I ever had the pleasure to meet. He would always wear a smile. ~~~ Name: Mark Targett Where do you live? What would you like to say? Very sad to hear of PA's death. My thoughts are with his family and close friends. ~~~ Name: Zena Where do you live? What would you like to say? I'm so shocked and saddened to hear of PA's death. I remember him as a plucky, determined sports-mad little boy - who grew up to be a very fine young man. My sincere condolences to Bob and Gerri, Stephen and his family, and all PA's many friends. ~~~ Name: Mike Bubbins Where do you live? What would you like to say? PA, I don't really know what to say. I was so shocked to hear the awful news on Monday. I checked the site on Saturday and everything seemed so positive. I left a message saying I'd be down soon, and now I won't get the chance. Sorry PA. ~~~ Name: David Blundell Where do you live? What would you like to say? PA was a: bright; lovely; lively; courteous young man. I am very sad that he should have died so young and missed much of the fun and adventure of life. However he used the time he had in such a way that those around him could hardly fail to like, admire and love him. His mother Gerri and father Rob (my brother) did a wonderful job helping him to grow up into the wonderful guy he was. They and his brother Stephen, along with his friends did an amazing job supporting him through the trauma of his accident and have generated the wonderful foundation to act as a living memorial to PA. ~~~ Name: Kerry Walker Where do you live? What would you like to say? PA was a top bloke and will be sadly missed. When I think of him it makes me smile and I laugh at everything he used to get up to with that mischievous grin! ~~~ Name: James and Becky Purves Where do you live? Upavon Wiltshire How do you know PA? Becky as a work colleague but mainly a very close friend and James as a friend and fellow rugby player What would you like to say? PA was the true Gentleman and always had an interest in other people's welfare. We always had a feeling, when we saw PA, of his loving and warm nature, which everyone always took away with them. Unfortunately for the world there are not many people like him at all. He will live on in our memories for sure and with the help and support he had already received from his friends and especially from his family, he had the knowledge how much he was loved. ~~~ Name: Martin Smith Where do you live? Rowley Regis, How do you know PA? 750 Motor Club Kit Car Championship Formula Official. What would you like to say? Having met PA only 12 months ago this feels a little uncomfortable as he obviously has so many close friends, we first met at the Autosport show when in a matter of minutes he amazed me with his passion for motor sport - I realize now that this was just one of his loves. Since that day we literally spent hours on the phone talking and advising him on how to make his car ready to race. I am proud to say that I was with him at his first ever race and he will be with me at every one of mine in the future. ~~~ Name: Dawn Barlow Where do you live? What would you like to say? PA's death has touched so many people and there will be so many lives that will never be the same again. He is an inspiration to everyone to live life to the full, just as he always did. He never seemed to have a spare moment, was always rushing here and there, but always had time for his friends. ~~~ Name: Chris Billingham Where do you live? Stourbridge How do you know PA? Old Swinford, he was our rugby captain What would you like to say? I was lucky enough to play rugby with PA at school level from the age of 11 until I was sixteen and I can remember my first day playing on top field with him. It was a particularly cold Friday afternoon and my hands were freezing, PA gave me a useful piece of advise about the warmest place to put you hands, which we laughed about at the time and still makes me smile now. That's the thing with PA, you can do nothing but smile when you think about him. Love and Best Wishes ~~~ Name: Pete & Dee Rowney Where do you live? How do you know PA? 750 Motor Club Class A Kit-cars & fellow Westie racer. What would you like to say? Dee and I feel very privileged to have met PA. We were devastated to hear that, after he had put up such a great fight, as he always did, It seemed like the goal posts were moved. He was an example to everyone who ever faces a problem in life. None of them can ever be so dramatic as the one he faced , and face up to it he did, on his own inimitable style. His Mum was absolutely right to christen him P.A. Those two letters will always mean Positive Attitude after meeting him. We can only guess how you must all be feeling. We are all so sorry it should have turned out this way, but we must all remember the good times we had in his company and remember how much he enjoyed everything he did. Always at full pelt, and to the highest standard. His memory will last as long as there is anyone around to remember. ~~~ Name: Robert & Angela Bennett Where do you live? Tredington, Warwickshire How do you know PA? Friends of Rob & Gerri What would you like to say? We have watched with tremendous respect and humility those 19 weeks of heartache and suffering for a wonderful, loving family. P-A was a very special person with a very special family who together fought and won. He died having conquered his fears, looking forward with hope and optimism, prepared to face whatever the future held. We are proud to have known him. We hold him, and you all, in our hearts and our prayers. With much love, Robert & Angela ~~~ Name: John Dring Where do you live? Longwell Green, What would you like to say? Not sure really what to say. We all know what an incredible guy he was. I had only known PA for about a year and a half but in that time he became a true friend. There were many memorable times with PA from late nights in his garage getting his car ready for a race that weekend, the trip to the Autosport show in 2001 were we got hooked on Circuit Racing....walking around the show after a very long conversation with Martin Smith 750MC quietly chanting...CIRCUIT RACE...CIRCUIT RACE! Phone calls from his mobile phone for hours chatting about everything and anything, and the none stop "go for it" attitude, his big grin and him saying "COME ON" when he was excited! I will cherish the memories and especially the visit to PA on Christmas Eve for ever. Our heart felt sympathies go out to Rob, Gerri, Steve and Kerry and all the family. We'll miss you PA. All Our Love John, Karen and Frankie Dring. ~~~ Name: Ann Forster Where do you live? What would you like to say? I will always remember PA as a strong, charismatic and very funny guy. I loved listening to all his stories about his latest adventures and was always amazed by the amount of things he managed to do, and how he managed to consume so much of Mam's cooking with so little effort. My thoughts are with those closest to him and I hope it is of some comfort to know how loved and remembered he is by so many who were fortunate enough to have known him. ~~~ Name: Chris Richmond Where do you live? What would you like to say? There are few people with the passion, commitment and ambition that PA displayed throughout his school-life and beyond. Add to this his abundance of talent and ability and you have the epitome of the ?all-rounder?, a model sportsman and gentleman. An honorable friend that will be missed by all, PA shared the Old Swinford trait of being able to pick up a friendship where it was left off, however long the separation may have been. My lasting memory is of PA the sportsman, the finest rugby player ever to grace top-field. May memories never fade. ~~~ Name: Sean Whittle Where do you live? Keynsham How do you know PA? Keynsham Rugby Club What would you like to say? Still devastated by the sudden, tragic and painfully sad news - a tremendous loss to all those who new and loved PA. His warm addictive personality, good nature, loving kindness and determined spirit touched so many people in so many ways. Everything he did was done with such passion and always with a smile. PA was someone who seem never to take his foot of the pedal and lived life in the fast lane with whatever he undertook, be it rugby, racing, work - life in general really. My feelings are with all those he has left behind ? he will always remain in our memories and continue to be an inspiration to us all ? as he always has done. God bless? Sean XX ~~~ Name: Ash Where do you live? What would you like to say? I'm gutted to hear about PA's death. I unfortunately wasn't particularly close to PA but know what a great bloke he was. My deepest sympathies go to all family and friends - you all knew a champion - cherish that and stay positive. Good luck to you all ~~~ Name: Where do you live? How do you know PA? College and worked with him in Searle / Pharmacia. What would you like to say? My thoughts are with your family. PA, you always had a smile, and a character to go with it. Your positive outlook on life influenced others. You will certainly be missed by me and many others. Forever in my thoughts. ~~~ Name: Gresh How do you know PA? School. What would you like to say? I am desperately sorry to hear the bad news of PA's death. It has come as such a great shock as PA was fighting back and making great progress. My condolences to his family. I thank PA for all the great times spent at school and on the rugby field. ~~~ Name: The Thomas Family Where do you live? How do you know PA? Often watched him at race meetings, along with all the other guys. What would you like to say? It has come as such a shock at the sudden news of PA's death. I would like to send my heart felt condolences to all PA's family and close friends. ~~~ Name: Jason Evans Where do you live? Ystrad Mynach How do you know PA? college friend. What would you like to say? My thoughts are with you and your family. Beautiful people such as you go on to beautiful things. PA you where a kind and thoughtful friend. One thing I'll always remember about you. Thanks for sharing some laughs and thoughts with me, forever your friend, Jason ~~~
Name: Scott C. Gilmour Where do you live? What would you like to say? Dear 'Big Felly', I have never known, or will probably never meet, another person as unique as you. You were always the one who was laughing, joking, friendly, mannerly and most of all, really lovely to anyone that you ever met. Loads of my friends who I introduced you to always asked about you and I won't lie when I said that they all thought you were top bloke. Words can't say how much I will miss you PA and I know you will be in Heaven, looking down on everyone and no doubt having a good giggle at me trying to run the 1/2 Marathon. It's funny but I was doing hill runs the other night on the hill we used to do them in the summer and I could hear you egging me on and pushing me up that hill. You'll always be in my thoughts and I loved you as a good mate does. If I can bring just half the happiness that you have brought into peoples lives then I'll be doing awfae well mate. ~~~ Name: Bro-Lee What would you like to say? I’d be delighted to sign your Guest Book. I trust you are alright in these last days, if not and hurting, suffering, going through some troublesome times then don’t hesitate to visit the site and read the messages by our very own Brother Steve and contact him as well. May God richly bless you, love Brother Lee. http://www.4hurtingchristians.com/ http://www.4hurtingchristians.com/Website ~~~ |
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