John Slater is concerned that his autobiography is starting to look like a complete set of Encyclopedia Britannica

That is hardly surprising though because John, who is approaching 87, has, and continues to live life to its fullest.

He retired as president of the Maryport Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society just before lockdown. He spent 50 years with the society taking many leads or second leads but also helping out wherever needed.

In his theatrical capacity, he spent 26years helping Camp Road (nowMaryport Cof E Primary School) with its productions.

"I helped build and paint scenery or do whatever was needed.I really enjoyed it."

He was a founder member of the Maryport Lions Club. He is still the secretary and has been for longer than he can recall.

"There are only five of us left now- two who live in Seaton, one who is, sadly, ill and me."

They can't do the things they used to but they are still raising money for good causes.

John built a casino some years ago and this is hired out to groups, organizations, weddings and more and raises +around £3,000 a year.

He retired from work as a senior chemist at Thames Paper Board(now Iggesund's).

His work life would cover the whole W section in his encyclopedia.

He was living in Cockermouth when he was appointed as a student trainee in the Hornflower Button Factory in Maryport under the tuition of Dr Neiger and Mr Winter. This was one of several factories run by refugees sin the town and went a long way to solving s serious unemployment problem, John recalled.

"I used to travel to Maryport on the 7am bus, work a day's shift,go to night school and get the last bus home. When I was offered a free place at Manchester University to study plastics etc I turned it down. National service was beckoning and I was tired of studying!"

John is married to Betty. They have three children, seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren