A tribute to John Clements from a survivor and donor

“I too was in the fire that night. John stood out from the crowd that holiday before the fire; we all liked him immediately. I remember seeing John Clements climb jnto the balcony above the front door so he could search for the boys left inside. The fire was raging and it was clear to all that it was a very dangerous situation. His colleague tried to pull John back and urged him not go inside but John said he had to go. That was the last time I saw him.

I dont know if it was John who caught me when I let go of the edge of the roof. One man caught me as I fell to the balcony below and another man caught me as I fell to the ground. Every 12th April since the fire I remember John Clements, Anthony Dutton and Mexander Hammond. I give thanks for being alive and I thank John for his selflessness and bravery. I think too of the families of the boys and wonder how they are coping with their loss. I met John’s wife when I worked at WGC hospital. I wanted to tell her how amazing John was and how grateful I was but I lost my nerve and I always regret that. I will never forget him or the boys. John was a truly remarkable man.”

Sometimes the passage of time dulls our memories so I felt readers of the web site might like to reflect at this time of year on these words from Louise Robinson who was saved by John Clements has offered a donation and to make a commerative glass window for the new Centre.

Thank you, Louise.

Jim Park