Village Voice February/March 2013 | Page 19

All this was told (I think at the rehearsal) when he explained that Robert, who had lost grandparents in the Holocaust, and was therefore unlikely to love German nationals, had invited him to his home for dinner, and, to his amazement, on a Friday night as well. A colleague came on to comment that Robert gave all his fees back to the Hammersmith Hospital, and I can believe this as he still lived in the first terraced house he bought when he got married. When Morton and I appeared we were all so pleased to see each other that we forgot our lines, but quite the most magical moment came right at the end of the programme. Twenty or so small children, amongst the first to have been born from IVF with his help, ran on to the stage with their adoring parents, many shedding tears of gratitude. That was the nearest thing to Touching the Coat of Jesus that I ever expect to see. A remarkable man; clever, funny, wise, unassuming and supremely generous. It is an honour to know him. Dr John Sargent WINCHESTER VILLAGES TRUST The income from this trust is available to provide assistance for those in need, where and when help is not available from public funds, or to help in emergencies. To make an enquiry if you live in Bighton, contact: Gail Johnson, Chautara, Bighton, SO24 9RB Tel. 01962 736556 or if you live in Old Alresford, contact: Sue Alexander, The Hyde, Old Alresford, SO24 9DH Tel. 732043 Mother’s Union PANCAKE PARTY February 12th Noon till 2pm John Pearson Hall, New Alresford Pancakes by tickets only! Please apply to Carol Beetham (732297) or Heather Galley (732326) Proceeds to the South Transept Fund St Mary’s Church 17