The lad from the workhouse

Stan Hardy was born in Camberwell in 1920. He spent the three years of his life in a workhouse; the next seven shuttling between children's home and hospitals.

He served in the Second World War, married his beloved wife Maud and then together for over 40 years they were leading Liberal campaigners and activists in South London, and great supporters of Simon Hughes, the MP for Bermondsey.

Today at St James we had a brief memorial service for Stan and Maud together on the 70th anniversary of their wedding, prior to their ashes being laid to rest in the Albin's Garden of Remembrance at Rotherhithe,

It was good to hear this record of devoted community service, inspired by a firm Christian Faith.

Speaking on John 14.1-6: I said such is the grace of God, that a boy from the workhouse can end up in the Father's House.