Phil was one of my best friends. The photos of him with his precious children say more than words will ever convey. I first met Phil in the late 1970’s and a few years later we started to train together at the Clacton-on-Sea gym on Recreation road. We trained hard and laughed a lot. We also met regularly for a beer and chat at the Red Lion or Ship at Kirby and more recently spent 2 weeks in SE Asia together, my birthday treat to a 70 year old, super fit, super lovely bloke who’d trusted in me and been a great friend. I never forgot his generosity. Money and possessions meant little, Phil was a people person, incorruptible and totally candid. You got what you saw and heard, no agenda, no side, just old school decency. Having seen phil just a few weeks before he died made me realise just how precious life and friendship is as we age. I’m not a religious person but if there is another place, a heaven I guess, then I’d want to be seated right by phil. Rest in peace. Den x

Knew you for some 45 years. Always a great character, and always a great friend. Simon

Daddy, Gramps. We love you and miss you so much. You are my idol and one of my best friends. Every time I have tea and Bovril toast I will think of you. xxxxx