Ray King: decisions for the future
Throughout my life, just like anyone else, I have had to make decisions. Which road should I take? Which direction shall I go? As I look back on all those quandaries I feel that most of the decisions I made were the wrong ones.
Now I am faced with a momentous decision. Should I stay here with my son in Thailand or should I return to my roots in England. There are so many issues that need to be considered; far too many to mention here. Although I have no other relatives in England I do have many friends and acquaintances that I do miss. This decision needs to be resolved soon.
Norma and I always enjoyed our regular visits to the Co-op where there was always a warm welcome from the assistants. Particularly “Little” Ann (I’m hope she won’t mind me calling her that), Karen, Tom and his son Barry, Kevin and all those faces I can see but whose names I never really knew. Post Offices aren’t usually characterized by their friendly ambiance but when Beryl and Brian took over, the whole situation changed for the better; the young lady too who assisted them was always cheerful and helpful.
We both spent many happy hours playing with Tom and Bob’s dogs on the patch of land near the “Dinky” shore.
Whenever we met Margaret and her husband on Queen Street they always told me how much they enjoyed reading my column in the Ambler. Those words were music to my ears. Then there is my favourite Harbour Fish and Chip Bar. I really miss the wonderful fish and chips and the wonderful welcome I always received from the many people who work there. I would like to pay a special tribute to Peggy who has stood behind that counter for almost thirty years, always serving her customers with that pleasant demeanour even though all that standing must have taken its toll over the years. When she does finally call it a day I’m quite certain that Peggy will be accorded a fitting send off. I’ll certainly drink to that!
Norma’s favourite venue was the library where we both spent so many happy hours. Librarians Anne and Hilda always provided such an excellent service. Their knowledgeable assistance, guidance and courtesy have always been much appreciated.
Last but not least, this very popular magazine is edited with professional expertise by Anna Williams. Anna has spent many years striving to maintain a quality publication even though a lack of funds almost led to its demise. Thankfully The Ambler lives on!!
I do want to give a special thank you to Malcolm Scott who also contributes on occasion to this paper. Malcolm copied the whole of the manuscript of my book “To the End of the Road” on his computer. He refused any payment, saying that it gave him so much pleasure to do it. That’s what I call real friendship.
I become very nostalgic when I think, as I so often do, of the people and places I’ve left behind. Life goes on relentlessly and I hope that when the time comes I will, at least this time, make the right decision.
Best wishes to you all,
Ray
Ray,I also hailed from Amble many years ago and have travelled the world.My home now is just outside Pattaya where you are more than welcome to come and visit and talk about our town!!I have many photos and am sure you will recognise some of the people in them.
Dear Ken,
It is lovely to hear from you. The Rochester’s were always a well-known name in Amble. i remember clearly the faces of those days. It would be nice to meet up with you at some point and discuss the old times and events as they are now.
Hello Ray, I moved to Amble four years ago (from Nottingham)and have read your column in the Ambler with interest.
Some years ago i knew an ex golakeeper,Percy Ashton who had played for Notts County and Nottingham Forest,he told many tales of the hard life of a pro footballer back in the 40s and 50s when goal keepers were not the protected species that they are now…
Dear Terry,
It was nice to hear from you. I appreciate your kind comments.
Best regards,
Ray.