Jez, I am so sorry you are no longer with us. We first met in the summer of 91 doing agency work at an egg factory in Bilsthorpe (North Notts). We often worked together outside loading packaging (often full of rotten eggs into a compactor). Oh the smell, those rotting eggs in the summer heat!
We passed the time chatting about our shared interests, me, shortly to commence a degree at Nottm Trent and you, an Oxford don! You shared your stories of working in the USA with a travelling circus and ignited in me a lust for travel. Thanks to you - I flew solo to Florida in Summer 92 for my first experience at the independent travel thing.
We next met again in 1993/94 when you became my neighbour in a shared house on Woodborough Road, Mapperly. Oh, the coincidence! I was working during the days at my placement and you were working nights somewhere. I’m convinced this was just a job to pay the bills and not a role to showcase your incredible talents.
The final time we met was in 2000, I was on my way to work and we bumped into each other in Nottingham. We had a quick catchup and you gave me your email address. I think you were headed oversea to teach (Italy?).
Regrettably, I never did send you an email.
I have seen your online video where you read the charge of the light brigade at the Arboretum in Nottingham. I have watched this several times and it is the closest memory of your voice.
Rest in piece, your old friend Steve Hazzledine
Steve Hazzledine
25/06/2024
