Who would have thought

Who would have thought that walking into a youth club at the age of 11 would make such an impact on someone's life.

A shrinking violet who disliked being in the spotlight was transformed by a man who affectionately became known as a "B.S.B" (A phrase Bill would often speak of in terms of resect and affection.)

But that was Bill, he had this ability to see a spark inside someone and with just his passion and belief he could make that spark grow until you felt you could achieve anything. That is how he made me and the rest of our dance group, Flexibility, feel everytime we got the dance floor.

Bill had a soft spot for Flexibility which meant we got away with allsorts!! We once roped him into coming shopping for bras to wear under our dance costumes (well Bill did hold the purse strings!!) I'll never forget how much we laughed about it later in life.

As time passed Bill and Maggie became great friends to my mam and dad as well as me and the rest of my family. My children too have shared many good times with Bill and Maggie and their family. I have a painting Bill gave me of my son Marc when he was three years old and I will treasure it always.

I'm glad I stepped into that youth club all those years ago and I'm glad me and my family had the pleasure of knowing such a wonderful man.

I'll miss your grin. I'll miss your philosophy on life. I'll miss you! Thankyou for being a part of my familiy's life.

God bless you B.S.B

Sharon Tonkinson xx