Here's my brother, Bruce in all his gappy-toothed innocence. He looks a tad different these days as we shall see shortly.
The Early Years
Suitably equipped for the snowy wastes of 60s Britain, Bruce sports knee socks, school coat and what appears to be a pair of over-sized welding gloves - perfect for tackling emergency repairs should the iron-clad runners of the toboggan come loose during a particularly tricky descent.
Bruce wisely shields his face from the approaching paparazzi. Oh the shame of those double t-barred sandals!! In doing so he accidentally discovers the 'Heimlich maneuver', expelling a half-chewed sausage from the throat of the startled Yorkshire terrier on his lap.
Bruce models his school blazer, set off beautifully by the capacious empire-line shorts beneath. Note the concertina leg-folds, each marking the arrival of summer and the attendant annual festival of hem-lowering to accommodate his sprouting form.
Our late mother grasps Bruce tight in an attempt to compensate for camera-shake, the characteristic hall-mark of our late father's family photography. Nearly, but no cigar...
Sheba, the family Yorkshire terrier, makes a second appearance as I join my brother for another carefully posed family shot. She was a dog unique in her ability to shoot noxious gas from both ends simultaneously, a talent which the two of us were shortly to discover.
Pyjamas by 'Young Man at C&A'. Magazine courtesy of 'Complete Photographer'. Brilliantined-hair, model's own. Antimacassar not shown.
I'll Drink to That
Having signed the pledge at an early age to abstain from all forms of fizzy bottled-water, my brother has since done his level best to support the British retail alcohol sector at every appropriate opportunity. Here are just three examples of his long and dedicated service to the cause.
Grandson Max calls for a refill during Christmas lunch.
Man of action! Super-strength lager - shaken, not stirred.
The look of love, washed down with a refreshing pint of cold Guinness to calm the flames of desire.
This Sporting Life
My brother loves his sport, whether as a player or spectator. A star on the fields of both rugby and cricket, he's equally adept indoors with the snooker cue.
Bruce explains the intricate laws governing 'leg-before-wicket' to Blue the retriever.
Over the years we've watched many an inspirational game of football together...
... and we've also been to one or two Sunderland matches.
When Two Become One
There comes a time in every man's life when it's time to settle down. Liz, Bruce's long-suffering wife, waits in hope.
Banished from the kitchen for commenting on Liz's culinary skills, Bruce finds comfort in a consolatory glass of a little something to warm the heart.
Suitably refreshed, Bruce returns to the bosom of the home as Liz readies herself to deliver a swift uppercut to the body.
Reunited, the happy couple bemoan the premature demise of Liz's platform shoes.
Family Time
Bruce's happiest place of all is with his family, and my hasn't it grown! I'll let these pictures do the talking...
And in the End
So it's just left to me to say a few words to my wonderful, wonderful brother. Bruce, it's been such a privilege to know you. Special birthdays like this come but once a decade and may I wish you all the very best as you celebrate your 80th 70th!!!!!
