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Dear Editor
The "pirate" referred to in your report of a service at St Mary the Virgin, Wotton Under Edge, was Harold Wood – and he would have revelled in your description. Sadly, he died after Christmas and was given a royal-style funeral service normally reserved for Wotton's worthies. The bell ringers rang a muffled quarter peal, the choristers sang an anthem and the church was pretty full of locals.
Harold was born a couple of miles outside the town and had suffered mental problems for many years. In childhood, he must have had learning difficulties and was perhaps not always treated kindly by his family and peers. However, he had become a devout and regular worshipper at St Mary's and attended most days, including evening prayers at 5.00pm when often only he and the vicar would be present.
Harold was confirmed in Gloucester Cathedral a few years back and reciprocated the Bishop's blessing by blessing him! This will long be remembered.
At St Mary's, he often wandered up the nave to "conduct" the choir.
Harold's arrival time and departure could be a little erratic, but nobody minded as your Mystery Worshipper discovered. He preferred to dress in kilts or shorts and in colder times would overlay them with a red dressing gown – his favourite colour. Many wore red at his funeral.
I thought I had better explain things as I have only just been recommended to your website. I have printed a copy of your report and will give a copy to Fr John May this evening. I am sure he will be amused.
Kind regards
Michael Sykes
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