19/4/2013
John Hope writes:
I have to advise you of the sad news that Charles Birch passed away on 8 April 2013 in hospital close to his home in Bideford, Devon after a short illness. Charles was, like myself, one of the many Cowan House Glee Clubbers and was a fine chorister as well as a great character. We were great buddies of the late Peter Vandore also of Cowan House. Peter Freshwater knew Charles well from that time and also shared a flat with him for 6 months much later on in London and so can provide additional background. Charles will be sorely missed but thank goodness he was able to be with us last year for the 2012 Reunion which he thoroughly enjoyed.
If you need more info please feel free to contact John.
24/4/2013
Peter Freshwater has forwarded this message from Pat Mallet, Charles's partner:
Thank you so much for your really kind note about Charles. It's amazing how the word spreads!
Yes, Charles had been ill for some time but I have to tell you that the visit to Edinburgh and the raising the roof with the Glee Club was one of the highlights of his year. It transported him right back fifty years as I'm sure it did for many!
I do indeed remember our time in London, when one could live on five bob a day and a rented flat was about £5.
Happy times indeed.
I hope you can encourage more Glee Cub reunions, it certainly worked for Charles,
Best wishes,
Pat