BigAlStrood

Finally at rest.

@TBeetles @DrRossPiper @kitenet @ColSocBI @Buzz_dont_tweet that wouldn't be where Alan found it.

@DrRossPiper @kitenet @BigAlStrood @ColSocBI @Buzz_dont_tweet I’ve only ever found it in the Lincolnshire Lime Woods probably the most likely place in Britain to find it.

@ColSocBI I've discovered a very rare beetle & thought you might be interested. It is a Six-spotted Pot Beetle (Cryptocephalus sexpunctatus). I have submitted and had it accepted on irecord but I can't find any info on this insect in England - could it be a first? Here is my pic

In our garden, near the pond.

@sherburnsi Simon, thank you for your kind thoughts. It was indeed a huge shock. He died very suddenly. But we gave him a good send-off and he's now at peace. Frances

@BigAlStrood Dear Frances, I am deeply saddened to hear this news. It is a complete shock. I used to meet up with Alan during his visits to the North East of England. A gentle giant of a man. My thoughts are with you and the family. Simon

This is Frances, Alan's partner. Alan died suddenly this morning. As yet, I don't know why, though he had been unwell for a couple of weeks. I will leave this account open so you can continue to enjoy its treasure trove of wildlife photographs.

@Birdwisenk Thank you. It went very well. We gave him a good send-off.

@BigAlStrood So very sorry to hear of the passing of dear Alan, we enjoyed seeing him on site and at events His photos showcased our amazing wildlife and he will be greatly missed Condolences to you Frances, we hope all goes well today 🙏

You can also make donations in his memory to the RSPB and Kent Wildlife Trust using the gofundme links on the obituary page. Whether you attend in person, by web link or simply in your own thoughts and prayers, let's remember Alan joyfully and give him the best send-off we can.

The service sheet can be viewed at onedrive.live.com/?cid=E4C501976… If you would like to share a memory, post a photo or send a message, you can do so on Alan's obituary page: funeralguide.co.uk/obituaries/127… 2/

Dear friends, Alan's funeral is today, 15th Oct, at 3 pm at Medway Crematorium, Robin Hood Lane, Bluebell Hill, Chatham ME5 9QU. Webcast link for those unable to attend in person: watch.obitus.com/login/c6dfqq User name: gucu4703 Password: 739967 Link will be live from 2.55 pm. 1/

@bryanoloughlin Thank you.

@BigAlStrood I'm so sorry, I just realised as I thought you must have been helping a friend as you were being a beacon of generosity with Gaza. It seem unthinkable you had your own grief. Now I'm filled with even more admiration. I'm so sorry.

@GigiStratton I hope so.

@BigAlStrood Dear Frances, I am so sorry to learn this. Yet, I somehow sensed he’d gone before checking his account today. @BigAlStrood was a good, kind, and wise soul. I’m certain he’s with God in a beautiful better world. 😿

@justamigrant I don't think many people knew Alan was my partner - Frances x

If you would like to make a donation to Kent Wildlife Trust and/or the RSPB in Alan's memory, there are links from his obituary page. funeralguide.co.uk/obituaries/127…

Alan's funeral will be on Tuesday 15th October at 3 pm at Medway Crematorium, Robin Hood Lane, Blue Bell Hill, Chatham ME5 9QU. Friends are welcome to attend in person or by zoom. The zoom link will be published on the day. Alan's obituary is here: funeralguide.co.uk/obituaries/127…

@jonnam318 Oh goodness, I'm so sorry, Jonathan. You must have been one of the last people (apart from me, obviously) to see him alive. Take care. Frances x

@BigAlStrood Sorry to hear this, condolences to you, your family and friends. I met Alan yesterday afternoon at the track near Elmley, we watched Cattle egrets on the fields. He seems OK in his car but complained about difficulties with walking. We even arranged to meet up on Monday at Oare!

@Dorotheacalm Thank you.

@deckertim Thanks Tim. It was so very sudden.

@BigAlStrood So sorry to hear of your loss Frances.

@vincemaple Thanks Vince. Frances x

@BigAlStrood Sending peace and love at this difficult time

@NormaSaunders Thank you, Norma. Frances x

@BigAlStrood Deeply shocked. Please take care of yourself.

@wideawake_media Who the hell are we following today? I want my dinner - I bet he's had his already!

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