Completing a circle

TERRY CUSTANCE sent me these old photographs of former Henley Mayor Alderman Charles Clements and his wife Rose.

Mr Clements was a builder who constructed Henley town hall and Friar Park.

Terry, who lived in Henley from his birth in 1950 until last year when he moved to Wiltshire after taking early retirement, was related to him by marriage.

He says: “My great aunt’s son married Mr Clements’ daughter. A bit tenuous, I know, but still related. From the writing on the back of the photograph, I’m pretty sure that his wife’s name was Rose.”

Terry remembers visiting Friar Park long before it became synonymous with George Harrison.

He says: “When I was a little boy it was possible to go to play in Friar Park, which was owned by a group of nuns. I was fascinated by the architecture even then.

“My father worked for George Harrison and I occasionally visited, so I have always had an affinity with the building.

“I then learnt through your website that Charles Clements built it so there’s a circle completed.”