Grandpa Grandpa Martin was quite gruff People may think he was tough. He mumbled and grumbled And shook his head. Sometimes his thoughts were better not said. But those who were close and understood him best Knew when praise came, it was better than the rest. When I was little I loved all things trains To Grandpa Martin this was never a pain. Visits to stations and visiting lines For some strange reason Grandpa didn’t mind. He bought me engines and gave me books, He rarely gave me those grumpy looks. Sometime later the truth came out, It was obvious when looking back, That Grandpa has also been a school boy anorak. Grandpa saved our little dog. When we were away the dog fell ill The vet was concerned he would pass away, But Grandpa Martin said ‘no way!’ He spent lots of money and stayed up at night To make sure that Mungo was alright. Grandpa watched rugby with a beer by his side. Grandpa watched cricket whilst pacing around. Grandpa watched football whilst rubbing his hands. Whatever he watched he usually frowned, But no matter the weather or whenever I played He’d be their supporting the team of the day. Seagulls or Robins, Steyning Firsts or the Colts He hoped that those playing would get a result. Whenever I scored, took wickets, got runs Grandpa was there, doing his best to show not to care But I wasn’t silly I knew what he thought He said even less on the days I got nought. Now he’s gone and passed away, I’ll think of Grandpa when I play the games that we loved together. He taught me things that will last forever.