RECENTLY, I lost my son Dean Murray following a two-year battle with illness.

During this time Dean received treatment in Christie’s Hospital Manchester, although he fought until the end, he sadly passed away with myself, his mum, brother, sister and Son by his side on December 4, 2021.

You can imagine the heartbreak we all felt, so the practicalities of finding a venue big enough to accommodate the family and friends of such a popular man who was loved both at work and socially was becoming impossible.

I have served as a reservist for over 35 years, based mainly at Harrowby Road, serving as a private soldier, and finishing there as the Officer Commanding.

However, when I requested the use of the barracks for the funeral, unfortunately I was met with a lack of interest from the unit representative.

Therefore I would like to say a huge thank you to Captain Rob Barr MBE and his team at 234 (Wirral) Squadron, 156 Regiment RLC based at Wexford Road Barracks in Oxton, who immediately met with Lee, Sinead and I and contacted the relevant people to allow us to hire the venue to hold the funeral on December 18.

Rob and his team allowed a very difficult day to go ahead and provided a very courteous and professional service, which was very much appreciated by all the family and those who attended.

They are a credit to their regiment and their corps, and they proudly exhibited the truth of their motto “We Sustain”.

From a grateful parent Major Colin Murray RE.