h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I'm sorry I came to your funeral in shocking pink Mrs V. I only found out about it an hour before and didn't have time to change into more sombre clothing.

You were a family friend for 40 years or more. We were at school with your daughters and you and my mother became close friends. You mourned together when your husbands died within a few months of each other. You supported each other through hard times and celebrated together in good times. My mother was matron of honour at your wedding when you remarried. You were the last of her friends to keep on visiting when the dementia kicked in and most friends found it too difficult to visit. I knew you were ill but not living locally I didn't have advance warning of your funeral. However, finding myself in town on the day, I managed to get to the church, even though some attendees looked askance at my bright coloured jacket.

So Mrs V, on reflection, I'm not sorry about the day-glo pink, inappropriate funeral wear. I'm just glad I was able to be there and somehow I don't think you'd have minded.

[Amy P]