RIP Alan Martin 1929 - 2023. Alan was a faithful member of the congregation of St Michael's from his baptism, and he was devoted to the 2nd Walthamstow Sea Scouts from 1942 to 2002, with regular Parade Sunday at the church. We will be celebrating his extraordinary life and devotion at his funeral on Thursday 14 December at 10.45 a.m. All are welcome to attend, or if you cannot, to watch the livestreamed service on Facebook.

Here is a tribute from a former Sea Scout. He sums up perfectly how special and precious Alan was:

'He was an incredibly motivated man, tremendously hard working, disciplined, thoughtful, knowledgeable and with the firmest handshake you ever experienced. His dedication to the Sea Scout Group really was something special and he built a legacy that directly and indirectly influenced so many kids and adults over the years. His hard work brought about many experiences and life lessons for the hundreds of Scouts, leaders, helpers and parents that passed through the group, the opportunity for which would never have come about were it not for their good fortune in being involved with the 2nd Walthamstow.

To this very day my very longest and best friendships in life were made at the 2nd Walthamstow; that would not have happened were it not for Alan and for that I will be forever grateful.'