Ray is the younger brother of Dad/Gramps and grew up in Hull after the war along with the rest of the Watkinsons. Then he met Pat and they married.So far the same story as Dad and Mum (Ted and Gwen). But where they headed south in small steps to better themselves (Northamptonshire, then Hertfordshire, etc) Ray and Pat emigrated to New Zealand, on the other side of the world.
Also, like Dad and Mum, they had four children - Elaine, Nicole, Murray and Neil, and, over the course of time, grand-children and great grandchildren.
Pat has a strong character, organized and efficient, with plenty of energy; and is therefore a perfect match for a Watkinson boy. She has been retired for nearly 10 years now, but is still busy with her golf, extended family and many other things.
Ray is a lot like his elder brother, and it was strange for me to talk to him, because for a lot of the time it felt as if I was speaking to my Dad. Quite spooky at times, and obviously a little emotional. But for all the poignant similarities, there are differences - for instance, Ray quite likes beer and he is useless at car navigation and sense of direction. Pat would have to navigate, and would, of course, feel bound to comment on Ray's drivng as well! When given the instruction for the next turn, Ray would reply "roger" in his best RAF fighter pilot 'cabbage crates over the briny' voice.
We received excellent hospitality and there is a strong sense of family - we thoroughly enjoyed our few days with them.
