AN Ipswich lorry driver's widow today sent a message of thanks to friends, family and work colleagues who have given their unconditional support as she comes to terms with her loss.
By JOSH WARWICK
josh.warwick@eveningstar.co.uk>
AN Ipswich lorry driver's widow today sent a message of thanks to friends, family and work colleagues who have given their unconditional support as she comes to terms with her loss.
Kevan Paterson died early on September 7 when his lorry ploughed into a bridge on the A14, near Nacton.
Since then, his wife Judith said she had been touched by the response of those who knew her late husband and admitted their support had been a huge comfort to her.
She also thanked Dart, the haulage firm for whom Mr Paterson worked, after she received a generous donation from the company's drivers.
Mrs Paterson said: “People have been marvellous to me and so sympathetic.
“My sisters have supported me and the whole of my family have been wonderful.
“Dart has also told me they'll put my furniture in storage for free as I am in the process of moving and the police family liaison officer, Melanie Savage, has been absolutely brilliant.
“Lorry drivers are still coming forward and passing on messages of support and condolence.”
Mrs Paterson has received an enlarged framed photograph of her husband from her employers at Seasons Deli, which now takes pride of place in her living room.
Regulars from the Weeping Willow pub in Barrow, which Mr and Mrs Paterson used to run, have also dug deep to provide the money to buy a weeping willow tree for her new home.
Mr Paterson's funeral took place on Monday at St Augustine's Church when mourners turned out in their droves to pay their respects.
Mrs Paterson said: “On the day of the funeral, a diamond ring Kevan had ordered without me knowing turned up. When I saw it I screamed the house down. I just stood at the door sobbing.
“It was had red diamonds in which Kevan had picked specially because that's the colour I was married in. He was such a thoughtful man.”
The inquest into Mr Paterson's death is due to be held in December.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here