Hi Jeff,

I just happened to be reading some of your web stuff and various letters from John Christophers on the Goblin dinghy. He thought that Percy Blandford had died, but I’m pleased to report that Percy is still alive and well and this week, on Friday 26th October, he celebrates his 100th birthday! He lives by himself in Newbold-on-Stour near Stratford-on-Avon where he’s lived for over 50 years.

I’ve known Percy since 1956 when I was 10. I lived in the same village and used to play with his son, Peter. I also used to help make his prototype boats and canoes and became a founder member of the Sea Scout troop that he started. Percy is a great man and I call in to see him each year. I owe him much for the way that I turned out and for the the career that I followed.

Here is a link to a recent article on Percy in the local paper:

    http://www.stratford-herald.com/local-news/5695-torch-going-past-house-of-99-year-old-who-officiated-at-1948-olympics.html

Regards ………. Mike Summerton