My first visit to the Hopkins Home and there was no time for greeting Pam & Alan as VJ headed straight to look inside the fridge. Within, the shelves were packed with lemon meringue pie, chocolate fridge cake, strawberry bomb, trifle and apple & blackberry tart. I somehow knew I would love Pam even before I met her. Then from behind the closing fridge door I received a beaming smile from Pam. With a kiss on the cheek, I felt accepted straight away. Mind you, I was yet to meet Alan who I knew would be very protective of his daughter.

Year on year I will always remember the great family gatherings at Northumberland Rd, with Pam happily singing and whistling in the kitchen preparing an incredible array of food for everyone.

She was a super Mum and Grandmum, brilliant at organising everything while keeping everyone in order, even that cheeky Alan. I will miss her oh so much, but my fond memories of her will always warm the heart.