On Friday, 25 November 2016 22:10:44 UTC, Martin Rowley wrote:
... I've had permission from Stephen Burt (COL Chairman) to post the following: it's a sad tale I'm afraid for one so gifted in his field . . . . and by modern standards relatively young. For those that don't know, Philip initiated the setting-up of this newsgroup.

Martin.


Philip Eden

I have recently obtained an update on Philip Eden’s health from his brother, John, as follows: Philip is suffering from Parkinson’s disease and Lewy Body dementia. In the last few weeks his condition has deteriorated markedly, and we have doubts as to whether he still recognises family members. He is now unable to hold any kind of conversation, and his total vocabulary consists of the single word “no”.

Lewy Bodies dementia is linked to Parkinson's disease and is very aggressive. His condition was mis-diagnosed as depression / anxiety some 5 years ago, and has been a contributory factor in his behaviour since 2011. Philip has been cared for in a specialist care home for several months now. I'm not sure how much Philip will understand, but cards and best wishes are always welcome and may prove beneficial to him.

May I encourage members who knew Philip through his many years of active involvement and support for COL to send a best wishes card, or a Christmas card, to him at the address above, to show that he has certainly not been forgotten within our community.

Address:
Knoll House,
Studham Lane,
Studham,
LU6 2QJ
Tel:01582 873607

For about twenty years or so his column in the ST was the first thing I turned to.
Where else could you discover some amazing facts and stats? The one I remember is that, one winter's day in the 1850's the temp. in Sydney never went above 3C during a ferocious S'ly gale? Coming from anyone else you would hardly believe it.
Very occasionally I used to write to him on some weather-related topic. I always got a prompt and courteous reply.
This news is all so desperately sad for someone comparatively young.