A Letter From Maria Edwards Who Missed The Event

Dear ex Corpus Band Friends

I was so disappointed to have missed the birthday celebration and reunion last week. I obviously have developed old-age confusion as I put the wrong date in my diary for the occasion, the 28th Feb rather than the 27th. Fortunately just before I was about to start on the 200-mile round trip, I looked over the emails from Phil for venue details and to my horror discovered the party had already happened. The relief I felt that I did not make a wasted journey was totally over-shadowed by the disappointment felt at missing this once-in-a-lifetime occasion.

It sounds as though it was a wonderful, memorable evening. Mr Eccles looks incredibly well and yes, I did have to scrutinise many of the photos in an effort to recognise several of the middle-aged people shown. I've enjoyed listening to the radio interviews and the band sounds fantastic, obviously having caught up with where we left off 30-something years ago.

I am sorry not to have met up with you all again. I would love to hear from you if you remember me (maria.layfield@googlemail.com). Please let me know how you are doing. I live with my family in the Newcastle/Gateshead area - married to Steve for 26 years, with 4 daughters. This weekend (8th/9th ) we are back in Leeds visiting relatives so I am hoping to visit Mr & Mrs Eccles in Guiseley.

Perhaps if Mr Eccles is around in 10 years time, Phil could organise a 100th birthday surprise party for him. I promise I'll make that one!

Regards to all

Maria Layfield (Edwards)