Tommyfest is back 28th - 30th Aug 09 Aug bank holiday weekend same place as last year but better and more fantastic than before. 

"KEEP YOUR FACE TO THE SUNSHINE AND YOU CANNOT SEE THE SHADOW."

These words of wisdom by Helen Keller are at the top of the page in my diary for the day that Tom died, and they seem to typify how he thought about life in general. Material possessions meant nothing to Tom- he considered his riches to be in the many people who passed through his life and left a little piece of themselves in his heart.

Diane

4th October 1942 - 16th August 2005  

In his turn, Tommy left a piece of himself in the hearts of each one of his countless friends. With twinkling blue-eyed charm, countless compliments, informed conversation and an endearing Blarney even the Irish would envy, he managed to make each one of us 'special'. A rare gift!

We began to suspect a problem last summer when Tommy's partying diminished because he was suffering with abdominal pain. A series of tests showed up quite quickly, and devastatingly, that he was not going to be amongst us for any great length of time. After a brief spell in the Vic, he was transfered to Trinity Hospice where in true Tommy fashion, he fielded international calls and held court daily (predominantly in the garden) until the very end.

Whilst we were all in shock, It occurred to us that he might like a Big Do, before he left us; a Living Wake if you like. Diane was sounded out about this and agreed. We originally thought he would be going home or that we could get him in a wheelchair to The Cedar tavern or some venue where the numerous musicians who had pledged their free services could perform. Tommy took this on a step and suggested a 'field'. No doubt this had grown to Glastonbury proportions in that fertile imagination! Diane's recommendation was to proceed regardless and if Tommy wasn't well enough to attend, then hold the event anyway. Wise words as always! Keeping punctual appointments was never Tom's forte and he left us before plans were finalised.

So, the occasion became his funeral party... which was a stomping, jamming, rock extravaganza which would have truly delighted him. A packed house raised glasses for Tommy,s Toast with cries of,

"Chastity Temperance, and Continence......... but not just yet!!"

Staff at Blackpool Football Club remarked that they had worked at more sombre weddings!! Truly atmospheric and a glorious celebration of his life!

But now we have to honour a promise. Tommy wanted us to have at least one party annually in his memory. Nothing egotistical about this, he always welcomed any excuse to throw a party and loved the idea that everyone would be out there enjoying. So that is what we aim to do, create a truly Tommy- style bash called 'Tommyfest', in recognition of our wonderful mate.

Via this website, we will keep you informed of our progress and we will be asking for all sorts of assistance and ideas along the way. This is a completely non-profit making adventure. However, with the families blessing, we do hope to raise funds for the Hospice where their facilities, tolerance and high standards of care enabled Tommy to enjoy life as fully as possible in his final days.

He burned his candle at both ends,

It could not last all night,<