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Claire Goldsmith's page
Created by Naomi
Messages of support
James Goldsmith
12/04/2021
It lies not in our power to love or hate, For will in us is overruled by fate. When two are stripped, long ere the course begin, We wish that one should lose, the other win; And one especially do we affect Of two gold ingots, like in each respect: The reason no man knows; let it suffice What we behold is censured by our eyes. Where both deliberate, the love is slight: Who ever loved, that loved not at first sight? Christopher Marlowe (1564 - 1593) ...Thank you for all messages today, 12th April.
3 people care
James Goldsmith
09/09/2020
This weekend, we welcome another Mrs Goldsmith. Looking forwards Tom and Frances. In person, and spirit, most especially.
6 people care
James Goldsmith
11/08/2020
"Always felt taller, relative to her love for heels, having Claire beside" Post funeral update soon. J.
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James Goldsmith
27/07/2020
Some have kindly asked about flowers in anticipation of Claire's funeral, this Friday (31st July). Instead and if minded to do so, we're suggesting charitable donations. And identified two; the Sussex Wildlife Trust and the Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft, being local and representative of her loves for the outdoors and creative design. If you copy and paste this link, then open the 'Upcoming and Recent Funerals' page and look for Claire Goldsmith, on-line donations are nice and simple: www.freemanbrothers.co.uk Many thanks, J.
3 people care
James Goldsmith
24/07/2020
Having agonised, one we decided not to put in the Order of Service. Always on the edge of mischief...
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James Goldsmith
24/07/2020
Legally Blond! Three years ago this week we were in Manchester celebrating Naomi's law degree. Today, in not the easiest of circumstances, she got a very distinctive set of Law School results. Not sure I can survive another after-party like the last.
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James Goldsmith
24/07/2020
Girl power; a much needed few days away on her childhood friend Maddie's yacht. Need you back now honey, we have a funeral to arrange!
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James Goldsmith
22/07/2020
Not sure why it's only now that I find this after 30 years!
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Madeleine Arnold
06/07/2020
In true Goldie fashion, a trip into a Welsh cabin with broken glass on the floor, used vodka bottles in the cupboard, and a swimming pool to share with the owners pigs, was made into one of the most memorable and treasured trips. You're a beautiful lot xxx
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Holly Gill
06/07/2020
Dear James and family I am so sorry to hear the news about Claire. Claire was our wedding photographer 10 years ago in Brighton; it was a last minute wedding and I didnt actually meet Claire until the big day, but as soon as I met her it felt like I had known her for years. We met up with Claire a couple of years later when we came to your old house for photos with our dog, photos we now cherish as she passed away quite recently. We were due to meet Claire again in Brighton last year for some family photos when we got the shocking news of the accident. I'm sure she would have loved to meet our children and to have gone full circle on this journey with us, but sadly it wasnt to be. I'm so grateful to have met Claire, and will treasure her photos always, not just because it was our wedding but because of how special she made us feel. From reading all your updates she is obviously an amazing mother and will take inspiration from her as I try and navigate motherhood. You are an incredible family, and I send you so much love and support during this time. With love, Holly and Dan Gill
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James Goldsmith
04/07/2020
... always Queen of the Mountain to us x
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James Goldsmith
04/07/2020
She won't be happy when I tell her about this!
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James Goldsmith
03/07/2020
'Travels with Martha in my Puck'; the title that should have been.
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Donal Murray
01/07/2020
Found this photo of Claire back in 1987 (ish) at the advertising agency Connell May & Stevenson. Wonderful memories of a wonderful friend. Love to you all. xxxx
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James Goldsmith
25/06/2020
Claire would always buy cards on impulse, then find a reason to send them later. This I found and still in cellophane; would love to have read the words that might have been inside!
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James Goldsmith
02/06/2020
Room with a view. Next stage of the journey; St Peter & St James Hospice.
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James Goldsmith
02/06/2020
Monday 1st June and first day of summer. Lockdown at Corrie Beag taking a few extra day s before easing!
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Ian Robertson
22/05/2020
I only found out today. I met Claire once - out for a day's ride with her and Tom - she was such fun on that day and left a lasting impression on me of someone extremely creative and with a joy for life (and a great sense of humour). Tom always seems so proud of her and it was obvious why. Wishing the whole family all the strength they need. Love, Ian
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James Goldsmith
07/05/2020
Happy Birthday Alfie. Remember well the Saturday afternoon, M25 U-turn whilst on the way to Helen & Paul's wedding, to get Mum to hospital! This picture from NZ friends Mandy and John, just before they returned home; a 29-yr old Claire and 6-mth Alfie in Richmond.
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Laura Loutit
23/04/2020
Happy Birthday Claire! Thinking of you today, as always. Hope you're able to see the beautiful sunshine today. See you very soon. All my love xxxx
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Mel Upton
13/04/2020
Happy Memories. Thinking of you Claire. xx
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Angus Goldsmith
10/03/2020
Hello Headway family. It's a message from Amsterdam. Sorry it's been a while, but I'm sure Naomi and Dad's updates have kept you all informed with regard to Mum. One of Mum's old work friends and colleague got in touch with me the other day. After recently appearing on ITV's 'The Repair Shop' as a Goldsmith and diamond mounter, Richard had an editorial article feature in the RadioTimes 7-13 March edition. He was asked to include a photo of him working and opted for the ones Mum took of him. Photo credit of Mum was included alongside the picture. If you recall, several months ago I posted a picture of a silver key ring with an inscription that Mum once gave me. Richard was the one who produced and inscribed that for Mum. Amsterdam is treating me well (only one stolen bike so far), and a new canal-side apartment which catches the morning sun just fine. I've bought myself a museum card which allows me unlimited access to all the museums across Amsterdam for the rest of the year. I make the most of it, however can't help but feel sorry that Mum isn't there with me. I read the inscriptions and form my own understanding of the work, but there's always a part of me wondering: 'What would Mum say was the intention behind that painting?' 'What would Mum think of this sculptors work?' 'At what point would mum get a coffee from the museum cafe?'. The answer to that last question would of course, be before she'd even set foot in the exhibition. All my love Headway family. Thank you for your continued support, both from myself, the family, and Mum x
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Mel Upton
08/03/2020
One of the strongest and most gorgeous girls I know on International Women's day!! You are an amazing human. Your Mum would be so very proud of you. Enjoy a glass or two today. xx
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Laura Morgan
06/12/2019
I am so sorry to learn about Claire's accident and its outcome. We met through photography and Claire's generosity of spirt was really helpful to me some years ago when I was starting out. I really admire her talent and energy. I haven't met the family but wanted to send my love and best wishes to you all. Laura Morgan xx
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Mel Upton
25/11/2019
A Photo from our Dress Rehearsal. 125 people came to watch and filled the local Church for this performance.
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Mel Upton
25/11/2019
The twins singing their hearts out at The Greatest Showman,
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Mel Upton
25/11/2019
So.....this weekend I put on A Musical in a Day - Where 40 local people came along at 10am in the morning and we put on a 50 minute performance of The Greatest Showman at 7.30pm. It was a brilliant evening and, including monies taken last Monday at the Concert for Claire at The Royal Hospital, we raised a total of Ā£2,218.84 for Headway. Here are a couple of photos from a truly very special and brilliant evening.
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Michele Bole
18/11/2019
Hello lovely goldsmiths! This is third message Iāve tried to post, so hope this one sends! Hope to see you later at mels concert! What a lovely idea, just hope she doesnāt get us joining in. We all know how bossy she can be! Lots of love to you all and of course Claire from Ambra and I. Xxx
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Frances Goldsmith
09/11/2019
Thinking of you a lot this week Claire. Lots of news in Sheffield as I have picked out my wedding dress and would love to share this experience with my future mother in law! I look forward to seeing you soon to give you all the details. I have also been successful in getting a senior post on my ward, and you are always the one to send a 'good luck' or 'well done' card in the post (it's the little things that count, so much so I have kept this card from last year!) All my love x x x
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Mel Upton
08/11/2019
If anyone happens to be in Cornwall on Saturday 23rd November, I am putting on a musical in a day with a cast of 40 locals! We are performing songs from The Greatest Showman so it will definitely be good fun and all profits will be going to HEADWAY.
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Laura Loutit
01/10/2019
What a day we had yesterday, Claire! Mel and I came to visit and we were very lucky to have the main hall to ourselves.. with a few residents and members of staff popping in and out to have a listen.. and we had a little sing for a couple of hours! Mel was amazing as always, and even learnt some Rag n Bone Man for you!!! I just listened to that one..! So lovely to see you xx
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James Goldsmith
11/09/2019
Waking up on Sunday morning I wondered for fully a minute "where are you?". I think the 24hrs Claire-filled preps and party had taken us into another place. Just for a lovely while. Seeing the pre-party debris and speaking notes on our dressing table. And then reality hits... Anyway, your kids and friends did a more than brilliant job. Too many to mention (and also fear of missing someone out). And Naomi's words - yikes. The prefect segue for a party that went on until the early hours. A watershed moment perhaps. 'New normal' now beckons. x
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James Goldsmith
09/09/2019
Naomi's going to do a party update later. Phew... For now, a fair few have asked about Tom's toast, which was 'attitude and ambition'. Seven years ago to the day, Claire and Chris embarked upon an off-road 'Coast to Coast' crossing by bike. And as usual recorded it by photo and an album. At the end she put the Alfred Wainwright (famous fell walker, illustrator and author) quote from 1973: āOne should always have a definite objective, in a walk as in life - it is so much more satisfying to reach a target by personal effort than to wander aimlessly. An objective is an ambition, and life without ambition is ..... well, aimless wanderingā. The photo on the front cover of her album says it all...
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James Goldsmith
02/09/2019
Today honey was in every way like the first day of term. In so many ways. I guess in part being the first Monday of September. And a lovely, sunny one. Always my favourite month. All weekend the radio was going on about the first day of Autumn; by meteorological definition anyway - something Iāve never heard of before. It may have more to do with me dropping off Martha for the week at Puppy Camp. I thought of you doing the same with kids when little on first day of the Autumn term. In their pristine school uniforms. Perhaps Martha was a little (though not too much) less pristine. Rather hopelessly I think I held back the tears, just as you used too. Jeez, metaphors abounded. It just made me reflect on all those short, late summer holidays we had. Before the kids went to school. In Devon and the Isle of Wight. Always perfect weather and the beaches to ourselves. And especially I remembered those few days we had in Dorset, whilst you were heavily pregnant with Tom. I booked the Bed & Breakfasts (no āairā on ānā then). We did Sherborne Abbey, Thomas Hardyās cottage, Chesil Beach (numerous tea shops in btw obv!), and me unwisely windsurfing alone one evening in Kimmeridge Bay whilst you sat in the car parked on top of the cliff, knitting in the company of flask of tea. And the next day Sealife in Weymouth where we bought Tomās dolphin (still pristine, v unlike the othersā Teddy and Herbie Hare). Then fish and chips before heading home to Richmond. And the rest of the week decorating the nursery (though never quite so grand for that definition); yellow we painted it, not knowing whether they were a boy or girl. It also makes me think of the children saying that the camping holidays were always the best. It didnāt always feel like it to us at the time! (letās not repeat what Alfie saidā¦.). Though more than almost anything, I do remember you holding back the tears (not very well) as one year we started the drive back home around the Saunton headland. We got as far as Braunton, six miles later, where we stopped. Deciding on the spur that an early fish and chip (obv!) supper there was better than a Little Chef stop halfway. Easing our way back to what was then ānormalā. Even though we knew it at the time, how good was āsimpleāā¦. So here we are. Not quite a generation on. Alfie has been back to Devon, twice, camping with Izzy and Isla. Tom and Frances plotting their next camping and climbing holiday, this time in Spain (his collar bone healing ok). Angus starting his new term in Amsterdam. And Naomi has, I hope, lucked out wth a house share in Clapham (thatās a story for another time, but wow I got nostalgic for us). Before she starts Law School next week. Taking a couple of days before to see Angus in Amsterdam. And we have your 'house warmingā party, this weekend. Naomi has shared already with me her āwordsā. She has your tone and eloquence. Also your fear (er, everyoneās) of speaking in public. She also has your determination. So for your house warming party, Angus is sorting the playlist. I said start with Kingston Town. Thinking back to that weekend in Margate, just before the accident. And you dancing to this with abandon. But whilst going through the UB40 playlist, I also thought of this (that they didnāt play). It is more than appropriate for Angus in his current accommodation. https://open.spotify.com/track/5rCpAwrWFRGpsqc8wVVhql?si=5s4vWaQ9QA-bvMeceFPpOA Happy days they were. x
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James Goldsmith
12/08/2019
Alfie and Isla did Lego today. Not any old Lego. This was at the Tate Modern, where Claire took often the kids. The brilliant installation artist Olafur Eliasson dumped loads of white bricks so people could together build the 'City of the Future". Picture here that melts me was courtesy of Izzy. If you need a soundtrack then cut and paste https://open.spotify.com/track/7APyxB5LUYOPUT5oDVWkux?si=w3OBzljpS_e9EI2Z47LHRQ
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Amy Gilbert
30/07/2019
We have only this evening realised what has happened to lovely Claire. The last few months must have been torture for you all. If there is a family that has the strength, the kindness, the closeness and the grit to pull together through this, itās you, The Goldsmiths. We send you all of our love, support, hope & prayers from Devon. Claire loves the beaches in Devon, so I am sharing a photo for her. We know just what a strong and gifted woman Claire is and have no doubt of the effort and fight she will be putting into her recovery. You all are her everything, and that is what will be her strength, the sunlight encouraging her forward through the injury. If there is anything at all, any of us our able to do, we are more than happy to do it. In the meantime keep strong. Mark, Amy, Harry, Bethany & Charlie xxxxx
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James Goldsmith
05/07/2019
Well, we're in honey. At least for now. The place you'd been hankering for; smaller and making life simpler with more time for the important things in life. And even having unpacked most clothes, there's still a little space to spare - they had foresight in the late '60's and an obsession for built-in wardrobes! Even quite liking the pink en-suite bathroom, complete with matching carpet and not-quite matching patterned wall tiles - the new avocado? And it does feel like a home again (obv without your beating heart, though still with your soul), and a more solid foundation for whatever the future is. Only immediate concern is Martha being v territorial and barking at anyone that passes by - expect a noise abatement notice soon from the residents association. And re Martha I have a confession. The earliest I could book a dog groomer was three weeks. Anyway, I donāt think she looks too bad and she still has two ears and a tail. I dropped her off at puppy camp this morning and even Sam (sheās great isn't she!) didnāt notice. Yesterday was a quiet time to sort things on my own a little. And visit you in the evening. You were hot and looked tired so they put a fan next to you. I spoke earlier to Angus too (best you can with a 5-second delay), who seems to have found his 'soul place' in Cuba. We talked about the Under Toad. Today we're off to Love Supreme. Alfie is on hand to help me sort your caravan. I'm a little intimidated about the responsibility for that. Tom joins later tonight. It all feels like a bit of a watershed moment. And, oh, Naomi has a sweet confession to make too. Iāll let there do thatā¦. x
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Steve Sparks
05/07/2019
This popped up on my FaceBook account this morning. Six years to the day since Claire, Jackie and Kate were staying at our place and exploring the beautiful Val de Bagnes on their bikes. Time in the mountains always gives a sense of perspective and humility. It's fabulous that they're a passion shared by the entire Goldsmith clan. The beautiful visitors' book that Claire made and gave us after her stay is a permanent presence on the sideboard in our apartment and and provides a reminder to us to follow Claire's example and carpe diem.
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Angus Goldsmith
27/06/2019
In year 6 I managed to break my leg. Mum was due to go on one of her cycling endeavours in France the following day and selflessly asked me if she was still allowed to go in case I needed her. I saw no reason why Dad couldn't look after me - as at that age, beans on toast was a culinary treat - so of course I 'let' her go. I remember Dad bringing me in a card that she had written the following day, with evident tear marks smudging her signature writing - both in style and content. The card read something like: 'Leaving you when you need me most is one of the hardest things I have ever had to do, and I'll come back at a moments notice if you want me to'. After 10 years I fully appreciate the emotional depth in what she said. Saying goodbye and leaving you is consistently an incredibly difficult and uncomfortable thing to do Mum, especially today as I head to Cuba for 3 weeks. This photo shows a keyring that Mum got me before I went away over my gap year and she was very specific about its meaning (I went on to recite this meaning to her when she lost her water bottle that she was unusually and perhaps unhealthily attached to one evening...). She said that it didnāt matter whether the key ring got lost, as the sentiment it stated and represented would always be present. Loyle Carner released a new album a couple of months ago, and the final track āDear Benā caught my attention today as I was sitting in the garden with a beer. In a poem written by Loyle Carnerās mother, she reads to him: āBecause love does not lessen by miles, it's not locked out by doors or walls but reinforced in thought and heart. It cannot be lost like a key or a sock or left behind in a box. It is present in each and every breath and flows deep with every beat and deed. It may not be your presence but it's your essence that remainsā Iāll think of you whilst finishing a Colada in the Caribbean evening sun, Angus x
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James Goldsmith
22/06/2019
"Do one thing every day that scares you". I gave Claire a card with that Eleanor Roosevelt quote on our 15th wedding anniversary. She stuck it to the wall, next to the kitchen sink, where it remains. Doing some 'Claire admin' last night I found this. Just before she met Naomi in NZ earlier this year and unbeknown to us, she decided to follow our daughter's footsteps and do a skydive. Just in case it went wrong, she wrote a short note and left it in her hotel. Then shared it with us after the successful jump. Obv quite poignant!
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Frances Goldsmith
20/06/2019
We were meant to be exploring the Lakes this week, just like last year. I miss all of our adventures where you, Martha and the Eriba Puck go on tour and I get to come and camp and drink and catch up, whilst enjoying the great outdoors. All my love, Frances xx
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Lisa Thatcher
19/06/2019
Better late than never James and Claire.... The photo we spoke about on Saturday, taken at Lauras Christening in July 2000 :)) A memorable day of joy and laughter with friends and family. A memorable photo that makes me chuckle every time! ;)
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james goldsmith
11/06/2019
Well, you'd have loved Elton. Amongst all the outfits, I know you'd have shone. And probably first up dancing in the aisles! With Naomi away Tom was a pretty good 'plus 1'. Alfie and Izzy came to see you earlier. Then did an Ikea swoop ahead of moving into their new home. V excited. Naomi I think is nice and settled back in Sydney. Obv tough. She sent me a message with a picture of her outfit before going out. "I can't show this to Mum; is this ok?". Sweet. Angus survived climbing with Tom in Chamonix and only a couple of scares .He's booked his flights to Cuba and sorted studying next year in Amsterdam. One more essay to hand in then I pick him up from Sheffield. Good to have him back for a few days too, as I've decided to move back to Corrie Beag. Gives us a bit of breathing space. It'll also force me to sort a few things here as its just as you left it before going out for that ride. More importantly, and I forgot to tell you last week, Gavin and Stacey is back for Christmas. You always say you want me to be more like Mick; well here's my chance, apron on and sorting Christmas dinner! It'll come around all too quick. And in the words of the Rocketman... "how wonderful life is, while you're in the world" .. x
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Paul Charlton
02/06/2019
I spent a lovely time with Mum visiting Claire yesterday. Here's a photo of us waiting for Claire to join us on the balcony. We had taken notice of Naomiās instructions, so Mum decided to brush Claireās hair. Despite spending hours ādoingā Claireās hair when she was a little girl, Mum had lost the knack when it came to putting her hair back into a ponytail but a nurse came to the rescue. Mum then decided to try putting some face cream on Claire, but the vast array of lotions and potions caused a challenge as we couldnāt work out what they were all for, however once again the nurse came to the rescue. You can see just how wonderful the staff at St. Georgeās are and I would like to say a huge thank you to them all for the wonderful care that they have provided to Claire. I will be quite sad not to visit St. Georgeās next time I visit Claire, but I trust that Claireās move to Putney will mark the start of a new and positive chapter. By way of an indication, I was convinced that I sensed a spark of my little sister returning when I came to depart and say goodbye. Donāt ask me how I knew ... just call it a big brotherās intuition!
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james goldsmith
02/06/2019
A surprise letter just arrived. Claire studied for her 4-yr Typography Degree at Reading, graduating in 1987. I did Land Management and left in 1983. So we just missed each other (not sure Iād have got a look-in then anyway!). Helen and Clare, who visit regularly, were her Typography. 'partners in crime'. Claire shared a house with Ginny, another regular visitor, who met her husband Peter at Reading. Yesterday, several of Claireās Edgbaston High School friends came. A positive to come from all of this is a reminder for the importance of these trusted, deep-rooted relationships. (and I've no idea why any pictures I load seem to do so sideways...)
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KATE SIPPETTS
31/05/2019
Naomi just pootled through my photos to find some photos of your Mum. With her Joie de Vie we hope you've landed safely in Auz. Jacks and me will be up regularly to see Claire and I'm looking forward to the foot tickling/massaging. The lovely ladies in Ripe cafe where we have biked to ask about Claire every time we go there. xxx
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Paul Charlton
26/05/2019
Walking for Claire. In a few weeksā time I will be setting off to walk the second half of Wainwrightās Coast to Coast walk with Kate and Oliver. Only a few weeks before Claireās tragic accident, we had been starting to make plans for Claire to join us. I was so looking forward to my little sister sharing our adventure with us, and I have therefore decided to dedicate our challenge to her. I am sure that all those of you who have visited Claire will agree, that the amazing NHS staff at St. Georgeās Hospital have been doing a wonderful job of caring for Claire, so by way of a small thank you I would like to use this opportunity to raise much needed funds for the St. Georgeās Hospital Charity https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/paul-charlton7
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Lisa Davis
26/05/2019
Feel the Whitstable love š
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james goldsmith
25/05/2019
25th May 2019. 28yrs ago today darling. I remember looking around as you entered the church - quite late. And I whispered to Ant "mate, is she for real?". Not a day have I thought otherwise. You may have weathered a little better since though! J xxx
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james goldsmith
20/05/2019
Donāt mind admitting honey that Iām not liking Mondays so much right now. When life around for most is back to normal again. And ours isnāt; āa new normalā - more for another time. Last night Naomi and I got the train to Sheffield to see Angus. And hand deliver his pre-exam good luck card that you would always send. Hope we wrote the right words. He (as they all) have shown immense courage through this. Youād be beyond proud. I cooked a risotto (obv!) with shrimps (a first). Angus didnāt feel so good this morning. Everyone else ok so think Iām in the clear. This afternoon Tom and Frances took us climbing at Stanage Edge. I didnāt take part. Either lacking energy or a new, higher sense of self-preservation. Naomi abseiled, which made me nervous too. Donāt need anything else right now! Instead I watched in pretend calm and took Martha for a walk along the ridge. On a lead of course. Now weāre on our way back to London. Weāll see you tomorrow. Mel is coming too. And will expect high standards of course. Last Thursday Jan, Dawn and Heather visited. I honestly thought the ward was thinking āLoose Womenā had gone on tour, what with all the glam, chat and attitude. Youād have loved it. We went for supper, which was already in your diary. Just not in Tooting. Then Naomi put me through intensive nail, hair and skincare training, for when she goes back to Aus. So Mel should be happy. As can be. xxx
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Mel Upton
17/05/2019
Lovely photo from when you came to visit us in Cornwall! Instead of having supper in our house you insisted on setting up in your wee vintage caravan! A fabulous evening. Sending big love xx
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Jan Groombridge
16/05/2019
Claire, 4 years ago today we were on one of āourā girls nights out, today was another date for āthatā night in the diary... we couldnāt let that pass so seemed an appropriate for us all to visit you together ... albeit no alcohol ... the espresso martinis have been put on hold .... for now !!! šø you looked as beautiful as always and are always in our thoughts, lots of love as always š
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james goldsmith
16/05/2019
So we've just had a lovely message from our friends at Tenerife Bike Training; the Delgado brothers. And Eloy of course, who rode so much with you when sweating up and then flowing down Mount Teide. It reminded me of them giving you their ārider of the week awardā - for your attitude and perseverance - as we ate their motherās legendary paella! They send their kisses, saying āwe remember always Claire being strong of mind and gentle heartā. Talking of āflowā I canāt find the London Marathon photos (I canāt find lots of things!). I did though find this one of you running free on the South Downs. Perhaps where you are most at one. X
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Madeleine Arnold
15/05/2019
Flash back to some great memories and a wee reminder of growing up.... Who was it that was "the most beautiful girl is the world" again Claire....? :P xx
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james goldsmith
11/05/2019
Flying back to see you this morning honey. As our new friend at the hospital said to Naomi āyour Mumās been sailing for a long time now; she needs to turn around and come back to shoreā. More prosaically, itās the weekend and I want my appropriately outrageous soulmate back. Xxx
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james goldsmith
09/05/2019
Morning honey. In Boston for 48hrs. Remember coming here on a business trip with you, must be 30yrs almost to the day. Before we were officially a couple. The client was very funny about it when he found out! All a little different now and looking forwards to getting back. Did 30mins in the hotel gym; you know how much I love them (not). Give me fresh air and terra firma any day. Perhaps tmw when Iāve got my bearings. Thereās even a screen to read on the front of the jogging machine. So I stared at an Albanian newsfeed, not that it mattered through the sweat and without reading glasses. That FB memories thing is a mixed blessing. This 3yrs ago and when we went to Budapest. Think I said something like you not always being mud, sweat and grazes when on the bike. Always. Xx
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clare jenne
09/05/2019
Hi Claire, Im setting off to come and see you, and bringing Scarlie, my daughter. Ive been going through more of the old albums..... so many memories after 36 years of friendship. Here's one from way back when i met up with you n helen and the new babies XXX get well soon. In my thoughts EVERY day
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james goldsmith
05/05/2019
I remember well this bank holiday Sunday last year my dear. We'd stayed at Gareth and Katie's stunning place on the Isle of Wight the night before. Katie was less than happy with his BBQ technique and consigned him to the wine. Some things were meant to be! This before doing the round the Island randonne. Great day. Before we set off you said 'stop'. Let's take this photo (though not sideways, as uploaded). Think I said words along the lines of 'why, we need to get on'. You always know best. The next day of course was Alfie's birthday. All his mates turned up for the usual gathering at which you were as usual the discrete hostess. And as they always expected! I hid myself away and wrote my mother's eulogy, for later that week. Little different this year, if no less poignant x
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Jan Groombridge
03/05/2019
Hi, I sat with you at lunchtime for an hour and half, the ward seemed so quiet today, I noticed a new lady opposite you. I read you a chapter of your dadās book from the Lake District then I talked to you about a load of crap from a magazine ! I was hoping youād say oh ā ffsā Jan shut up ! Ali , Loo & Trina send love to you , Trina wanted me to tell you all about her new baby puppy āKoraā which i did and I showed you and Naomi a picture! Sheās adorable! Hopefully you can take Martha to meet them for a drink at the Bull soon. I also met your friend Chris, that was nice as youāve often talked about your cycling trips together. Naomi so tenderly applies your Clarins face oil and moisturiser and perfume! Your skin does look amazing, I have to admit I sprayed your perfume on me too so I have wandered around smelling beautiful and of you all day! All my love as always to you and all the family, Jan xx
3 people care
Helen Hamill
03/05/2019
Popped by to say hello again today Claire - we are keen to get that date in the diary for that next gallery visit we promised each other as soon as we can! Love to all Team G - Helen and Clare xxx and Lydia came too x
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Ellen Redford
01/05/2019
p.s. from the same trip - always an eye for a great pic!
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Ellen Redford
01/05/2019
Hi Claire, Iām going through photos and came across some absolute corkers from when we met up in Vietnam in 2017 ā what a laugh we had! From cocktails on rooftop bars, shots in the jungle with the locals (pic), cycling through the forest on slightly dodgey bikes to wading through mud to catch fish ā always up for a laugh and an adventure aunty Claire, you made this trip so much fun. James, Tom, Alfie, Naomi and Angus are being absolute troopers in this extremely difficult time, I know youāll be so so proud. As I said to Naomi when I came to visit you with mum, you bring glam to the fam and youāre still bringing it! Iām thinking of you everyday and continue to send you all my love xxx
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Ben Herbert
30/04/2019
Claire, we were so shocked to hear about your accident and I still can't believe this has happened to you. Thinking about you and all of your family every day and remembering that time we rode over some of the highest roads in the Yorkshire Dales! Love Ben & family in Richmond, Yorkshire X
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Bella Knott
28/04/2019
Dear Claire, I found this photo of us from 2010 - how quickly the last 9 years have gone, it only feels like yesterday we were walking down Sidmouth seafront where this photo was taken! I really do have the best and most beautiful godmother. Looking forward to seeing you again soon when you are feeling better. Lots of love, Bella xx
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Ginny Knott
28/04/2019
Dear Claire, So lovely to spend time with you yesterday. I think this Dior quote is so true for you, dear friend. You always live your life to the full, with love, energy and meaning. Hope you enjoy the photographs we left with you and we look forward to seeing you again soon. All our love to you and your amazing family, Ginny, Peter, Millie, Henny and Bella xxx
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Ambra Caserotti
28/04/2019
Thinking of you all everyday. Your mumma is a strong one and I am sending all my positivity and love over to you. Big, big hugs. Ambra xxxxx
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cindy arnold
27/04/2019
So many camping and surfing holidays, we just love "Team G " and thoughts are with you all day every day. Boat awaits a recuperation cruise to Scotland - Chris and Cindy xxx
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Frances Goldsmith
27/04/2019
Last time I saw you we were celebrating Tomās Surgical graduation in London and mis-behaving! Wedding plans in the making and adventures in the Lakes in June to be had! So many good memories shared and more to be made. All my love x x x
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Angie Baynham
27/04/2019
Hi Claire, Cycling up and down the South Downs with you every Wednesday morning helped me get through tough times back in my Sussex days ... now Iām sending you and all your gorgeous family strength, positive thoughts and lots of love as you venture down this tough path to recovery. Thinking of you all the time and willing you with all my heart to get through this. Much love, Angie (and Hannah and Matthew)
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Mandy Barclay
26/04/2019
Here we are Claire James Mandy sam Tom And alfie
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Mandy Barclay
26/04/2019
Thinking of you every day Claire And the fabulous time we had together when you were out visiting New Zealand this year. I can not believe you jumped out of a plane .!Found a couple of photos from the past., Over 24 years ago,just before we left to come home to NZ after living in London for 6 years ,. Cheeky Sam and Tom together. Also a photo when I was pregnant just about to give birth to jay and you had already had Alfie in the pram. I hope you enjoy seeing these when you are awake soon . Xxxx
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james goldsmith
26/04/2019
Morning honey. Just taken Martha for a walk. Still a little subdued but adjusting to her urban life for now. She met a gorgeous Puerto Rican rescue dog - even better still a squirrel and all the usual excitement that goes with that! Sue kindly brought Heidi and Trevor to see you. As considerate and inspirational as ever. They had some photos, from summer 1996. One of me holding a baby Naomi. And this of you cuddling Alfie. Inseparable from Teddy of course, who's had his own traumas (how many times have you had to stitch and patch him together??) but still going strong. See you a little later x
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Ginny Knott
25/04/2019
Dearest Claire, I thought you might like this photograph? Here we are looking rather glamorous for the Whiteknights' Formal, 1983. Our dresses may be timeless but maybe not the 80s' perms! Wishing you all the best for a speedy recovery - we shall make it to the Dior Exhibition this summer! Peter, Millie, Henny and Bella send you all their love; we are thinking of you and looking forward to seeing you again soon. Much love, Ginny xxx
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Amanda Hobday
25/04/2019
Wishing all the family the best with Claireās recovery and thinking of you all . Canāt wait to do one of great school our reunions with Claire again Loads of love xx
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james goldsmith
24/04/2019
Not quite the birthday we'd planned eh honey? Emma, Annie, Steve and Ellen joined us for supper just around the corner. So did Andy Bristow. The barman kindly asked if we'd moved in locally, having seen so much of us recently! Waking this morning and listening to Sibelius #5 (obv) I'm reflecting on the extraordinary resilience of the kids. How they're holding it together and behaving always with dignity, comforting your many shattered visitors. And why. Because of the way you ensured the family unit was always working and ready to adapt; subtly watching, listening, encouraging and fine-tuning. My tool set and roll of duct tape seems a little crude in comparison! Missing you x
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Christopher Boocock
23/04/2019
Dear Claire - Birthday present is a bit late Iām afraid, but it is in progress... After a rummage in the spares bin, Garmin are sending me the bits for the Edge . Looking forward to the test ride when you are ready :-) Much love, Chris xx
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Mandy Barclay
23/04/2019
Our thoughts and love are with you Claire. Thinking of you ever day Looking forward to getting you back to New Zealand . Especially Whangapoua beach . Lots of love Mandy John ellie sam and jay xx
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Laura Loutit
23/04/2019
Happy Birthday Claire! Thinking of you today, and holding tight this special quote which you put on a card for me, many years ago. All my love as always. See you very soon xx
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Mel Upton
23/04/2019
Happy Birthday Claire. All the way from sunny Cornwall. Big love as ever xx
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clare jenne
23/04/2019
Happy Birthday dear friend of 36 years!!!!!!. I'm honoured we could visit you and sing you Happy Birthday today. You are an incredible fighter and have everything it takes (and more) to join us again. There is more fun and sharing and laughing to be had! You and yr amazing family are in our thoughts every day. With LOVE. This pic, (couldn't stop laughing at the selfie-ness), was taken only 3 weeks ago, a day of fun and laughter. XXX
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Helen Hamill
23/04/2019
Happy birthday to my beautiful friend x
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Paul Charlton
23/04/2019
Extra special birthday wishes little sister. Mum has asked me to pass on her best wishes also and I know that Dad will be watching over you. Iām so sorry that I canāt be with you today, but please remember that itās my turn to take you on the Bluebell Railway for your birthday treat ā¦ donāt keep me waiting!
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james goldsmith
23/04/2019
Happy Birthday darling. This morning I took Martha for a walk in St Mary Magdalen churchyard. Just as peaceful and beautiful as you described. I bought a coffee and let her roam for a while. The dogs are more her 'sort' too! We're on or way to see you now xxx
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Jackie Gilligan
23/04/2019
Thinking of you all today, James, Tom, Naomi, Alfie, Angus and always Martha. A day we would often share together sometimes just me, Claire and Kate, the daft little trio. The āSaddle Sistersā doing something silly, doing something we loved to mark our birthdays. Just paused for now. Xxxxx
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Andrew Hill
22/04/2019
Looking towards the future when we can sneak off for chips and cocktails while the boys go skiing. Xx
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Sue Robinson
22/04/2019
It's such a great thing to get an update today & see the message that Claire is off the ventilator & moving from ITU too. We can only imagine what a challenging week you all have had. What a reminder of both the fragility of family, but also what huge strength family brings too. Sending our love from all the Robinsons (Trevor, Heidi, Sue, Chris, Rebecca, Sam, Flo & Joe) xxxxxxxx
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Jan Groombridge
22/04/2019
You are all constantly in our thoughts and we are just willing you Claire to wake up now. Lovely quote James, Surely being strong & fit bloody helps .... and beautiful too ! To which Claire is all of those! When we visited last week the nurses had commented on your nails Claire - I know that will make you smile! We are here for you all anytime, all our love Jan & Steve xx
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