Some years ago Bernard revealed that he was a great fan of Keith Newbery's column in the Portsmouth News. Keith was an Award winning journalist who lived on the Isle of Wight.

As it happened, Keith was a close friend of mine. About six years ago I arranged for Keith and his Wife Denise to meet with Bernard and Maureen, my Father Pennell and my Partner Wendy and me in an Island Pub for lunch.

Lunch lasted several hours and Keith was in top form talking about his career.  Bernard spent those few hours chuckling happily as they talked and made clear to me on several occasions afterwards how much he had enjoyed it.

It was a great afternoon for all of us.

Jim