Over the years, Jo told me so many stories about her early life, and the trials and tribulations she went through to reach, become established, and succeed in the UK. Once her UK citizenship was settled, she worked hard to send money home to support the life and eduction of her brothers and sisters. She met and married a Filipino chef, who tragically died very young, and not before they had suffered several miscarriages. All of these tales fascinated me and I decided to write her story. I got a small batch printed and presented the proof copy to her on her birthday once year.

As a result of this, I was sent a manuscript written by a gentleman, recalling his early life during the years of the second World War. I was in touch with the family and, with their help in providing a little background and a few pictures, I created another book, really just to honour this extraordinary man.