IN HIS later years, my father, Harold Lea, regularly enjoyed writing letters to the St Helens Star.

Even though I live on the other side of the world, I still checked out the Star website every week to see if another of his letters had been published.

I know other people also noticed his regular letters. So it is with sadness that I must report he passed away on February 8.

My dad enjoyed a long, eventful and active life and left a lasting impression on anyone who met him. He always had new stories to tell, regularly surprising even close family.

He left behind his wife of well over 60 years, his children, grandchildren and a great-grandchild. He will be greatly missed.

Thanks to the St Helens Star for publishing his letters, and thanks to everyone else for reading.

Andrew Lea, Japan