A sad event today, attending the funeral of well known Chatteris councillor Ray German, where I was also representing our MP Malcolm Moss. Ray was a hugely respected and popular senior councillor, working over the years at town, district and county level.
Ray was born in Sawtry and spent his entire life in the Fens, with the only gap being to serve with distinction in the RAF as a rear gunner during the second world war. Rear gunner was one of the most dangerous jobs of all, with a life expectancy of just four weeks. Having left school at 14, Ray did extra study in order to be able to sign up and serve his country as soon as he turned 18.
There was a large attendance in church, reflecting the affection and high esteem in which Ray was held locally. It was a moving service, especially with the presence of the British Legion. Ray was a real gentleman, and it was fascinating to hear some early stories of Ray’s life on the family farm in the Fens in the 1920s, when Ray’s love of flying was triggered by a airship flying over and an early bi-plane landing on the family farm.
Another story told was about how as an 8 year old he would ride the huge farm shire house to the blacksmith, being lifted up on to it at one end by his father and off by the blacksmith at the other - what a contrast with health and safety regulations today and quite a responsbility at such a young age.
At the reception at the Conservative Club, was amazed to hear that the Lib Dems have already put out election literature before Ray’s funeral has been held. I hope a lesson is learnt. This has never happened before in my experience and never should again.
Afterwards pop in to the old bakery in Chatteris with my election agent Debbie Clark, then head back to the association office for the afternoon to catch up on recent constituency issues which have been raised over the festive break.
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