To describe what Carole means to me is a difficult task because she means so much, a friend, surrogate mother and a person I the upmost respect and love for.
I first met Carole when she educated me on the ways of the arena and how to survive in such a fast-paced environment. However, her taking the time to share experiences with me are not the first thought that comes to mind when I think of Carole and the arena. That thought belongs to Cruella Da Vil. This will always be one of my fondest memories and something that started a beautiful relationship of Fine friends.
Other thoughts that come to mind when I think of Carole include trips to the Bingo and me not being able to keep up with her lighting fast dobbing of numbers, so instead just enjoyed the cheap food while she went on dobbing away, never winning anything when we were together.  When I lived in the spare room, I can remember the endless nights sat watching soaps and putting the world to rights and Carole being so supportive and loving, just like a mother, helping me through one of the most difficult times of my life. For that I will be eternally grateful.
The final memory I will share is that of Carole doing me the great honour of being an official witness for me and Lizzie. It means so much to me to have my surrogate mother involved in such an important day. This memory will always be accompanied by the purple wig worn on the day (well worn until I managed to get hold of it at the reception anyway) and the perfect decorations.
There are so many beautiful memories, too many to share in this short account, I wish I could share them all to highlight the great times we have. To finish I’d like to add that every memory is a pleasure and honour to look back on. I have so much love for Carole and I feel honoured to have her refer to me as her surrogate son. She is most definitely a mother to me.
Love always. Alan