A POTTER is holding a picnic in honour of a friend who died 39 years ago.

Andrew Appleby, who runs a pottery studio in Orkney, is planning the event to commemorate the death of his friend Christopher Jones.

Mr Jones was killed after a trench collapsed on him during an archaeological excavation at Sparrow's Den, West Wickham.

The 18-year-old who lived in Bourne Way, Hayes, was a student at Ravensbourne College, Bromley Common.

Mr Appleby, 58, said: "In his short but full life, he achieved many skills.

"He was an excellent archaeologist and a very fine artist.

"I believe he would have become a famous individual and an example to many as to how to live and conduct themselves."

He added: "The loss of him was a very bitter blow."

The father-of-two is inviting friends and family who knew Mr Jones to attend a gathering at St Mary The Virgin Church, Hayes Street, Hayes, where he was buried.

The gathering will be held at 2.30pm on May 28 and will be followed by a picnic on Hayes Common.

Mr Appleby, formerly of Green Gates Road, West Wickham, said: "His favourite treat was a Melton Mowbray pork pie and ginger beer, so I am suggesting we have a picnic and savour these delights."

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