SATURDAY 26th JUNE 2010 A day I shall never forget!
As well as the official launch date for my book, it was also combined with a fantastic party which will never happen again! Never in 44 years have there been so many Astran employees gathered together in the same place, at the same time. From the very first driver (Gordon Pearce) in 1966, to the guys and girls who are working there today, almost everyone was there to celebrate the book launch and to enjoy the “grand re-union” !
I am very proud of my writing achievment with the book, but that was overshadowed by the sheer emotion felt at the party. Some of the ‘old boys’ had not seen each other for 30-40 years and to see them re-kindling old friendships was very satisfying. And when Bob Paul stood up to speak, the place fell totally silent. The respect for him was immense! I am chuffed to bits that all my hard work getting them all together paid off. All I can say is,I felt very humbled and honoured to be amounst them on such a special occassion.
Here are a few photos taken on the day: More to follow…
Employees old and new, gathered together infront of Carl Jarman’s Scania and Darren Marchant’s Volvo. Does anyone recognise anyone?
Time for partners and family to join in…
Carl tried his hardest to purswade Mr Paul to do “just one more trip”…
It was like a meeting at the Derby & Jones club!
If I sign your book, will you sign mine?
Mr Bob Paul - (my ultimate hero). He spoke for 10 minutes and captivated the audience with a very emotional speach!
(On a lighter note: Heather from Old Pond can be seen sitting behind)
Smile chaps. Mr Charlie Norton (left) and Mr Peter Cannon.
Fresh from their film stardom, Frank Hook (left) and Dave Poulton, just returned from Doha!!
Anyone for ‘camion spew’? Seated are Gordon Pearce (left) and John Frost. Standing are Geoff Frost (no relation) (left) and Frenchman Bobby Vallas.
as an honorary member.
