Sir, – My father, Terry Commins, who recently passed away at the age of 94, had retired after a lifetime in music to Harmby, in the Yorkshire Dales.

Born in Plymouth on the Barbican, he joined the Marines as a band boy at 14 years old. During the Second World War he served with distinction on HMS Arethusa, Belfast, and the Durban. Returning on leave he was to find the family home flattened by the Germans in one of the numerous bombing raids on the city.

In 2013 Terry received belated recognition for his part in “the worst journey in the world”, with the award of the Arctic Star for service on the Arctic convoys.

By the time recognition came Terry had advanced dementia and was at the outstanding Rydal Care Home in Darlington. And for that reason I wish to pay tribute to the wonderful support received in Darlington at his last port of call.

So often we hear criticism, but here in our adopted hometown of Darlington we have had great support from Carmel and Neasham Road Medical Practices, as well as speedy responses from social services. Once resident at Rydal, assistance continued from Mental Health, and Darlington Memorial Hospital. But most of all I want to acknowledge the love and compassion shown every day and every night from the staff at Rydal, and for all the new friends we made there.

Following the war, Terry was the principal flautist in the Blues & Royals and made regular appearances at many state occasions. A terrific raconteur meant that many of the team at Rydal would listen to his tales of life on the seven seas, playing in the band and boyhood antics in Plymouth – these memories were more vivid for him than anything in recent decades.

A useful all-round sportsman he was a golfer until his late 80’s and was a member of Bedale Golf Club seniors team and enjoyed playing many of the fine courses around the North-East.

At Rydal Care home the staff understand dementia and how to make their residents feel valued. The care industry in Darlington plays a big part in the town’s economy and I hope we can all support and champion those that make such a valuable contribution.

TRICIA WOODS (Mr Commins' daughter),

Darlington.