Dear Katie, of course I remember you all and the great times I used to have in Cornwall. Not having visited Mudcat Café for a while, I was surprised when my wife's cousin mentioned that she had seen some entries under the "Don Shepherd – is he still around" thread. I had not signed on for at least 8 months and so I think I should give you an update as to how things are with me.

Deirdre and I celebrated 40 years of marriage in April and can boast 3 children and 7 grandchildren. As I mentioned previously for medical reasons, I am no longer able to sing or play the guitar but still maintain an interest in all performing arts. In that we are very lucky as Bungay, a small Suffolk market town where we live, has the thriving independent Fisher Theatre which hosts a wide range of the performing arts.

I am gratified (not to say humbled) that there are still posts on this Mudcat thread with people asking for news. I am sorry that I have not been more disciplined about checking in (thankfully daughter Dorcas and cousin Cathy keep me posted but I will sincerely try to check and post regularly in future.

Give my regards to your mother and father.

All the best,

Don Shepherd