I was born in February 1949, Bernard was 5 years old in July 1949 and the Family moved from Millvale in Ballyclare to Oaktree Farm, later known as 201 Hillhead Road, Ballyclare. Raymond the youngest of 7 children arrived in August 1951. Bernard was the Boss of the boys (or he liked to think he was) and he certainly had more muscle so Raymond and I had to be crafty rather than confrontational. We liked to play Cowboys and Indians and there were plenty of sheds to hide in and ambush the enemy. Later on board games and table tennis were more relevant for mature boys. Bernard probably had more chores than us in the early days although probably not as many as our older sisters. There were free range hens to feed, eggs to collect and plenty of mucking out. When some of the sheds in the yard were converted to pig pens even more feeding and mucking out. I think Bernard always wanted to be a farmer and went to Greenmount Agricultural college when he left Larne Technical College. This was great for Bernard and he enjoyed the freedom of being away from home but as he had already some litters of pigs and a few beef store cattle before starting Greenmount and wasn't at home to look after them, he got me to do most of it. I found out later he wasn't so good at sharing the profits! You live and learn. Bernard was a hard worker and he liked to keep others working hard too. Between Dad and Bernard we were kept busy. From an early age we were into sport but Bernard was always the most competitive, I liked to take part, Bernard liked to win. Indoor sports like table tennis snooker and darts were favourites during the winter. Football was also a favourite of Bernard's and later both track and field and cross country running. He was pretty good at most of them. I think Raymond had the edge on him in the cross country. Later on Badminton which he played at a high level for many years. This competitiveness continued into his farming life and his family can relate his enthusiasm for showing his animals and plants, this was also a good marketing tool. You can choose your friends but you can't choose a brother or sister and even if I could I wouldn't change a thing. I am sure Bernard found it difficult in his later years from being so active to health issues slowing him down but he was always resilient and carried on with little complaint. He knew his life was coming to an end but was unafraid. We didn't discuss religion and faith much but I know Bernard took great comfort from his faith and his family. Bernard may god bless and keep you, I know you are in a better place and you will not be forgotten. Florence and you family also know this . Your loving Brother Colin and Sister in Law Lynda