Memories of dearest Ann - from Auntie Tracy 26 August - my mum's birthday, I was 15 years old. We received a message to say that Beatrice, my sister, had given birth to a precious baby girl. What a wonderful birthday gift - My mum - a Grandma to her first Grandchild and me, an Auntie! I remember how happy we all were, such special memories. I recall that Lily, Ann's new Grandma, had to take a medicinal tot of brandy to steady her nerves! Margaret and Mary (my sisters) and me going on the bus from Rivington to Horwich. Then walking all the way back home, taking turns to push the pram with this tiny and beautiful baby snuggled inside...Ann. I remember at 2 years old, Ann wearing a blue coat with a velvet collar and leggings, walking beside us and not wanting to be held by reins and not wanting her hand held. Very determined and independent, wanting to do her 'own thing' , ready to race off ,like a rocket and cheekily laughing hoping that you couldn't catch her. School days came, with crumpled socks and dirty knees. This precious niece of mine was growing, with golden hair and blue eyes and her infectious joy, we were pure putty in her hands. As a teenager Ann came to stay with us for a holiday in Sheffield with Uncle John, Stephen and I. We always remembered going to pick blackberries, making meringues and going to sports day at Stephen's school. We went for picnics and long walks in Derbyshire. It was lovely to be with Ann - always caring, kind, loving and gentle. Always loving the beautiful countryside, the flowers, birds and animals, her garden and home, holidays and long walks with friends and her beloved Ray. I remember so clearly the day Ann told me that she was expecting a baby, it was 24th July 1981, the baby was due in March 1982, but her treasured baby son couldn't wait that long and arrived on 1st November 1981! A tiny doll-sized treasure, so perfect, now a tall and handsome man , Matthew so dearly loved by his Mum and Dad, by me and all who know him, Ann's complete joy. My last gift from dearest Ann was a beautiful bouquet, roses and fresias, for my most recent birthday in April of this year. I have the card saying 'All our love and God bless, Ann, Ray and Matthew'. So many happy memories. Loved with love beyond all telling. Missed with tears beyond all tears. Remembered with joy beyond all joy. God bless you always my precious Ann. Rest in peace. All my love - Auntie Tracy X