Sir Norman Wisdom, OBE

It was with great sadness that we heard the news of the passing away of our long-time President, Sir Norman Wisdom, OBE, who died on Monday 4th October, 2010, in a nursing home in the Isle of Man, aged 95, after suffering a series of strokes.

Sir Norman first became HAODS’ President 32 years ago, in 1978, and remained our president ever since, and used to come to some of our rehearsals to see what we were up to.

When he moved to the Isle of Man, Sir Norman found it harder to be involved, but his willingness to help and advise has been much appreciated. Christmas cards were exchanged every year and birthday cards and programmes of HAODS’ shows were sent. Until recently Sir Norman always replied with interesting comments, experiences and helpful details. His caring attitude and enthusiasm to help everyone was always evident in his letters and cards: he was a great communicator in every way.

A few short years ago, many of us were lucky enough to meet Sir Norman when he attended HAODS’ 50th Anniversary Dinner and Dance at the Horsham Drill Hall, on Saturday 5th June, 2004.

Shown here is a photograph of Sir Norman, in the company of one of our members, Lois Donnelly, taken on this very occasion.