I first met Martyn when I joined the cast of “Hopes & Dreams” that he led, with weekly Sunday afternoon rehearsals at Ryarsh village hall...it was a year when it seemed to rain every Sunday afternoon, but the place would still have been lit up with Martyn’s smile, warmth and energy. Martyn seemed to like a project, so that wasn’t the only production! And for “Precious Cargo” & “Chimneys”, he encouraged, trusted and invited me to take on larger roles of choreography and co-directing in addition to principal roles onstage. Martyn had a real gift for nurturing and encouraging others, particularly the youth. A gift for growing the gifts of others. I am so grateful for Martyn’s support for me during these years in my teens. It was the first time I’d been part of a Christian amateur dramatics group, and it made me see the real joy of working together, in fellowship with others, to combine everyone’s creative gifts together into performances that can both entertain and move others. Not only have I continued my am-dram ever since, but I’ve also developed my exploration of creative expression worship, strongly involved with Christian worship dance groups today. So thank you Martyn. I also remember Martyn’s support, often helping to drive me to production meetings...usually in his special 2-seater classic vintage cars, which was a big love of his! Always full of fun surprises! Since going to university and moving away from home, I haven’t seen Martyn for probably over 15 years, but I’m glad that I’d still been able to keep in touch indirectly via my parents who are local. How sad it was though to hear the shock of the news of Martyn’s accident, when my parents rang to tell me. A life taken too soon. I send virtual hugs and best wishes to Pam and to Martyn’s sons. It was lovely to get to know all of you during those “Hedgehogs” days. I’ll end with of course the special memory from our “Precious Cargo” production, when Martyn played the part of the German soldier in hiding, and when as a ballet dancer, I acted the role of the soldier’s wife, dancing a dream sequence, as if dancing a waltz in heaven. So I had the fun of choreographing a waltz which I danced together with Martyn. Obviously this was a very poignant part of the story, which I think moved lots of the audiences. So, Martyn...I hope you’ve remembered your left foot from your right now, and I pray that you may not only rest in peace with Our Father in Heaven now, but that you may also continue dancing the waltz of eternal life, through your faith that you have shared and blessed us all with over the years. God Bless.
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