I have read some of my fathers gear on here and just like to say it has given me an insight to him as a boy and a young man. I can picture his concerns, his joys, and a different world. Not withstanding rose tinted glasses I think a better world.

I am glad he has these fond memories, they seem richer than my own.

He may be an exile but I am getting a better idea of what he left, and what a decision that must have been, to leave everything comfortable, everything near and dear, and for an uncertain future in a land he knew nothing about.

With no money and a young family he took a leap of faith, but being a prudent Irishman, backed against the reserves he had, of capacity for work and the intelligence he possessed.

Love you Dad.