Freddie (Fred) Scadgell 6th August 2024

My clearest memories of Len are from Ryde School and Isle of Wight sporting events; rugby and particularly cricket. Len was an astute observer of our matches rather than being openly vocal as I recall. He was someone I remember wanting to impress with bat or ball. I fear I let down rather than lived up to expectations more often than not, but his presence was always reassuring - even if the look was often one that could be interpreted as either: 'what in the world was that shot, fishing outside off' / 'those half track long hops are always going to get put away....' / 'how have you managed to get run out again!'. He was in many respects an ever present on the boundary, and a genuine supporter of us all. Other memories include the immaculately kept grounds and wicket at Godshill Park House, and the 'home advantage' provided by the fast top table tennis table. More recently I recall an afternoon / evening of autumn international watching on the TV in Guildford and really enjoying the comments and insights, which in turn brought back memories of watching (I'm pretty sure) England beat France in Brook, again on TV (HD definitely didn't exist in 1991), it was 21 - 19 and a first English Grand Slam in 10+ years. Philippe Saint-Andre scored one of the game’s greatest ever tries, but it also included a Rory Underwood one for a famous victory (French flair v England's pack). Probably more for James - but a little bit of nostalgia here: - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kdXDgn62PNg Len - thank you for the childhood fun, support and smiles.