To add to my brother Pirran’s story, I felt very lucky as a child that I was often included by the boys in their games and activities and by the Hayward family. ‘Armies’, midnight feasts, the seaside and Gerry’s brilliant treasure hunts, all such good fun. Jill was always so positive, full of energy and good humour, welcoming, caring and kind. Perhaps my memories of her are particularly vivid because she and the Haywards were a significant and cherished part of my childhood - I will always be able to clearly picture her (laughing) and hear her voice.

The breakfast Jill gave to all us kids when Pirran and I turned up that snowy early morning having ‘run away’, was bacon sandwiches! I was 6 or 7 and quite scared because it was sinking in that we were in big trouble with our parents, so I was surprised and very reassured that Jill gave us this luxurious treat for brekky; it signalled that things might be OK after all.

Jill was kind to my mother too, during many years of ups and downs, and I suspect a grounding influence. The last time I saw Jill was at my mother’s memorial service, and this is also a memory I return to often, because she was so caring and understanding, and outright dismissed my grief-induced guilt, telling me firmly that I “must not” entertain those feelings. This was a great support from a mother-figure I respected and valued so much.

We were all so looking forward to seeing Jill soon and it is difficult to believe that she is gone.

I will treasure my memories of you, Jill. With love xx


P.S. Pirran wanted me to add - as he couldn't edit his story - that he was actually 2 or 3 when he first met Jill and became friends with the boys, while attending Mrs Hammond's nursery school in Sutton.