It was 1996. I was living in Worcestershire and had been offered a job in Sheffield. I knew no one and had no where to live. I moved into Val's lovely house as a lodger and she made me feel very welcome. We quickly became good friends and shared a glass or two of wine and good conversation. My parents died within a few months of each other and it was Val who was a rock during this time. Val participated in amateur dramatics, The Apex Players, and I attended all the productions she was in. Val was always enthuastic about everything and always had a positive 'can do' attitude to life. Even after moving out, Val remained a faithful friend and never forgot my birthday. I will never forget Val who was the most perfect friend you could have.