Tribute from Lesley and Taryn (Simon's Wife and Daughter) We are so sad that we are not able to be at the celebrations of Tony's life in person and are grateful we could let Simon be there representing us and passing on lots of love from both of us to everyone so far away. We have some wonderful memories of very happy times spent with Tony and Rona here in South Africa over the past few years - but most especially an amazing Christmas and New Year last year which we will cherish always. Tony also visited us a few years ago on his own and made some wonderful memories for all of us but especially Taryn who lost her other Grandpa when she was only 7, and will now always fondly remember the times she spent with Tony. He was always very supportive of her dancing and took much interest and bought her a number of outfits the most memorable being the sailors suit for highland dancing which arrived in the nick of time before her first competition this year in Knysna. We were so disappointed that it had not arrived as we knew it was in the country but the post office did not yet have it so we took one last chance and stopped at the post office as we drove out of our home town to go on the holiday where she would also be needing an outfit, and somehow it had just in the last few minutes arrived - such an amazing surprise and just in time for her 15th birthday which was the same day as the competition. Another entertaining memory Taryn will never forget is when Tony stayed with us for a few weeks in 2017 and Taryn had a onesie (one piece pyjama suit) which had a broken zip, it had come undone from the outfit. We went off to church the one sunday and when we returned he gave her the onsie having sewn it up (saying he always carried a sewing kit in his bag) and fixed the zip - who ever had a grandad like that? So talented and so much fun to be with. We also have many fond memories of the conversations about animals and especially dogs. He had so much knowledge and we could all chat for hours about the antics of dogs and he always had many tips for us with our unruly hounds. We are heartbroken to know we will not see him again in person, but the memories and love will remain with us and you are all close in our hearts this day as you celebrate his life, especially Rona, David, Dee, Paul and Simon lots and lots of love from the tip of Africa, Lesley and Taryn xxx

Eulogy by Simon Edmonds-Bassett Thank you all for coming today, today is not a sad occasion but a celebration of an amazing life, it’s a day when we can reflect, remember, share and celebrate Dad’s life. All that he was and all that he meant to each one of us. There were many different aspects to his life, and in each one he touched people in different ways, with his easy going and affable charming nature. Dad enjoyed life, he loved the outdoors, and travelling, which is hardly surprising considering his many years in the Royal Navy. When he did something he did it well, whether he was setting up an entertainment system at home, hosting the annual street BBQ’s, or installing a pond in the garden, he made the most of the opportunity and created something special…but it was always meant to be enjoyed by everyone. If something was worth doing, it was worth doing right! It was probably just as well I didn’t follow Dad into a career in the Royal Navy, as one of my first opportunities to gain my ‘sea legs’ was a family day out on a Minesweeper, from Portsmouth, over to the Isle of Wight and around the coast to Shanklin. We set off, and once we had left the harbour, began some mock manouveres, complete with sharp turns and evasive action being taken by the ship. Now this wouldn’t have been a bad thing, and for a young lad, would have been highly enjoyable, had I not filled myself up on fizzy drinks in the Mess beforehand whilst we were alongside in Portsmouth! Feeling decidedly unwell for most of the outbound journey. I just about managed to keep my breakfast intact, and I can say the return journey was far smoother sailing, after having been told to keep an eye on the horizon and also getting to see one of the remote surveillance submarines being launched! This was one of the first times, I truly got an understanding of what Dad’s job entailed. For various reasons, Dad and I didn’t get to spend much time together as I grew up, and then I moved to London, got married and moved to Cape Town. This made spending time together even more tricky, and why the time we spent together in Cape Town was even more precious. We made the most of every visit, really getting to know each other and making up for lost time. Whether it was standing on top of Table Mountain in the freezing wind and mist, waiting to catch the cable down or helping me fit a light in our loft, we enjoyed the time we had together. I have to say that these last two months have taught me to never take a day for granted, and to make the most of each one, and the family and friends you have around you. We are all here today as a testament to how much he (Dad) meant to all of us, in every area of his life. When he did something or set his mind to something he did it, and did it well. There was no room for half measures. Now you are gone, too soon, leaving us with memories, which we will treasure in our hearts Its all to easy to take so much for granted, Its all so hard to find the words to say, Like a castle in the sand, the water takes away, Now how can life ever be the same.. We will miss you Dad.

I am so sorry has left us far too early. Tony was lovey thoughtful man and a great help to me when I relieved him as Saudi training Manager. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. RIP Shipmate. Pete (Alfie) Hitchcock MBE