Good morning everyone.  We have come here today to celebrate the life of my dad, Alan Davter.  He was a much-loved husband to my mum, a fun and caring dad to my brother and I and a usually tolerant grandfather to his grandchildren.

He was born on the 3rd March 1933 in Aylesbury and as we know, was one of a pair of twins born on different days. His brother, Brian was desperate to be here today but we all urged him to put his own health first in these uncertain times.  As he grew up, he showed himself to be a keen sportsman; he played hockey, rugby and was an accomplished athlete, competing in cross country tournaments for the county.  Having chosen a career in teaching, his first post was at a primary school but he spent most of his career working in secondary in Harrow as an RE teacher.  He met my mum at a youth house party and they were happily married in 1971.

Growing up, my brother and I were lucky enough to have a dad who always encouraged us to get outdoors in the garden and he would often play sports with us, even if I occasionally had a tantrum if I felt like he ‘let’ me win.  We went on many family holidays in various cottages, farms and barns along the coast and no matter how cold the water, my dad would always attempt to join me in the sea when other members of the family were more reluctant!

Although it sometimes seems like a burden, he also passed on his support for Spurs to my brother and I and despite being made to walk miles to the stadium, we always enjoyed going with him and later on in life, it was something he also enjoyed talking about with Tomas.

My dad was a very popular man during his life.  My friends from school, church and university always used to say how funny he was and even though I disputed that, he did have a great sense of humour.  He was once a integral part of the church community and I know that many people will be keen to pay their respects when we are able to hold a larger memorial.  To finish today, I’d like to read a letter which my mum received from a friend of dad’s, John Rumble.  It seems to encompass all the best parts of who my dad was.

(Please see the letter from the photos section)

Thank you all for coming today.  My dad touched all of our lives in a way that can never be replaced.  I hope he can now rest in peace knowing that although his physical presence on this earth has come to end, his influence on us as a family will go on and we will think of him every day.