Bench honours Nelson & Colne College hairdressing lecturer

The popular Nelson and Colne College lecturer died in May aged 63.

John – who was a remarkable testimony to the will to live – spent his last days at Nelson Manor Care Centre in Barkerhouse Road, Nelson.

His twin brother Chris and sister-in-law Nina used some of the £1,170 donated by his friends to buy a bench in his name. It has been placed on the balcony of the nursing floor at Nelson Manor, where John loved to sit to enjoy the garden views.

The remaining money - £400 – is to be donated to the NW Air Ambulance.

Originally from Nottingham, John taught hairdressing at the college for 28 years, when his career was ended after he suffered a massive brain haemorrhage. He was in a coma for weeks after, and his family were preparing to turn off his life-support machines when, to the amazement of doctors, he began to recover.

After staying in a series of care homes, he settled in the newly-built Nelson Manor, and was delighted to be back in his adopted home town.

Nelson Manor Manager Janine Kelly said: “Despite serious health issues, John was the life and soul of the place during his time with us. His room was on the nursing floor, but he socialised throughout the building and was often in reception to greet visitors.

“He was full of enthusiastic ideas for how we could grow and develop Nelson Manor, never losing his creative touch or passion for passing on skills.

“We are very grateful Chris and Nina have chosen to spend some of the donations on a bench for other nursing residents to enjoy. I know John would approve heartily.”