I was first introduced to Anthony in 1984 by a mutual friend, Ian Jackson, stage manager. Andrew and I had recently moved into Torriano Avenue in Kentish Town and Anthony was living a few doors up with Ellie as they worked on his flat in between productions. We shared a love of theatre production, of good food, old world wine and great beer; and any time spent in Anthony’s company was always a treat. Nights down The Pineapple; my first Christmas spent away from home; in rehearsal and on the road – always great fun and intellectually stimulating.
Andrew and I moved to Brighton in 1990 and Anthony was a frequent and welcome guest; keen to refresh his pallet with regional ales, including our wonderful Harvey’s, brewed in Lewes. It was now we who hosted Christmas and New Year, in the company of dear friends, and Anthony was always centre stage with his superb stories and his beautifully crafted poetry.
We also enjoyed several canal holidays with Anthony, including part of the Cheshire Ring, the Llangollen Canal, the Stourbridge Canal (just he and Andrew) and most recently, the Kennet & Avon Canal with our beloved Bobby boy. Anthony was our captain and Bobby his keen canine companion on the tiller deck. Life at two miles an hour suited us well, punctuated by locks, swing gates, perfect pubs and interesting towns. We relished the quest for the perfect pork pie, the best black pudding, delicious duck eggs, brews with a view and fabulous food. Crossing the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct was a particular treat as was mooring up to visit local landmarks, museum collections and small towns with master butchers, a traditional bakery, unspoilt pubs and farmers’ markets. Our last canal trip with Anthony was on the K&A and we returned the boat to Bathwick Hill on a beautiful September morning; exactly one year prior to the day of Anthony’s funeral. It is hard to accept that Anthony has gone; but a consolation to know that life would have been far less fun without him.
Carolyn Lewis (Feest)