Lydia and I were firm friends from the age of four! Rollerskating up and down Monnow Street, walking our dogs, horsecriding, playing on the swings in Chippenham Park.  Nagging our parents for extra pocket money to head to the fair. As we grew up we enjoyed weekends in London where I moved too, as well as a fabulous Christmas in Sydeny Australia which we had an incredible time. Trips to Cyprus to visit my Father. Simply to me Lyds was and always will be "family".  She was full of fun, and was always the sensible voice of our group, she was bright, loved a good natter and was such good company.  Many of my friends in London also became friends of Lyd's and were hugely fond of her, and loved it when she came up to stay. Lydia visited my Mum and Grandmother regularly in Monmouth and her visits were always thoroughly enjoyed, and looked forward too.  Lydia was a real lady, always beautifully dressed, fabulous haircuts (unsurprisingly) and was always truly an all round fabulous friend, someone you could really talk too! Always so thoughtful,. Lydia never missed a birthday or Christmas! Even for my children little thoughtful gifts would arrive in the post for them.Really a lovely,special person! My heart is really broken that she is really gone, and all my thoughts are with Sue, Jason and all the family. I send you all much love at this awful time  I will miss her dearly, and hold a very special place in my heart and memories forever. Kate (Thomas)