OWING TO indifferent health, Mr. Eley has decided to retire before his sixty-fifth birthday, and although we are more than sorry to see him go, I am sure he is doing the right thing. Anyone who has spent any time at all in a kitchen will know what a hard life it is, and Mr. Eley has spent his whole life cooking for Barnardo boys.

Mr. Eley joined the Barnardo' organization in April 1912, and was directed to Watts Naval School, and in 1917, after failing his medical examination for the forces, was appointed to the junior staff. He remained at Watts until October, 1941, when he was called up for service until discharged in November, 1946.

With the return to peace, Mr. Eley returned to his old job, and remained there until Watts Naval School was closed in 1953. He then went to one of our hostels in Leeds for eighteen months, and then on 1st June, 1955, took up the appointment of Head Chef here at Goldings.

Over a year ago our good friend Bob had a very nasty set-back with heart trouble, and for several months now has had to take it easy and cut down on his hours in the kitchen.

I am sure we all wish this unassuming friendly man a long and happy retirement, and trust that with the loss of responsibility and working to the clock from seven in the morning until nine or ten at night, his health will greatly improve.

If anyone sees a distinguished looking gentleman taking the air at Margate ...

N. T. P.

Reproduced from The Goldonian Spring 1962

It was reported in The Guild Messenger 1972 obituary column that Mr. Percy Eley passed away 27th January 1972 aged 69