Maxie looked great and was in good spirits despite the worries he has had with his own and Kath's health. Max looked fit and well and was very chipper. Max gave my friend and I a guided tour of the village which is superb accommodation and the care facilities looked second to none. Maxie owns his own bungalow on the site.

It was great to see Joe Simms again. Joe has also had a rough year with a broken hip but he keeps smiling. Communication is difficult for him as he can barely speak but he smiles a lot and is well thought of by all the staff in the village. Maxie looks out for him.. well they have been mates for 72 years since they joined up together in 1944.

I have some photographs of my visit with both Joe and Maxie as seen via the smaller images below. I am currently in Wellington and hoping to see the Band when the Edinburgh Tattoo arrives in February. I will endeavour to get and the see the guys again when I am next in Auckland.

Best wishes to all.

Dan