Gerry was glad to hear the deep laughter of her dear friend. It had been a long time coming and she was pleased to see her enjoying her life for once. Kathy was smiling at them all – she knew she looked beautiful, so she didn’t need any reassurance. Her boyfriend, a money broker from Camden, was looking at her like he had never seen a woman before, and that made Sharon smile to herself.

‘Who would have thought we would be here today, eh? Look at all the people who have turned up for it. Times have certainly changed. Every Face in the country’s here, by the looks of things.’

Sharon smoothed out the peach silk dress she was wearing, and adjusted the matching hat. She was looking forward to this wedding. She didn’t know why, but it felt like the start of something new for them. She had finally started to live a life of sorts, but it was a different one now – a calmer, happier existence for her. It was hard visiting the boys in prison; they had got seven years each and they were in separate nicks. But they would be out before they knew it. Kathy had grown up, and what had happened to her had given her plenty of food for thought. Sharon wasn’t too worried about her any more. Annie had passed away shortly after Ray’s funeral. And what a funeral it had been! She shuddered as she thought of it and pushed the memories from her mind. This was a happy day and she was determined to enjoy it. Knowing Annie was in the gatehouse had always made her feel safe somehow. She missed her.

A white Rolls Royce pulled up and everyone cheered as Reggie and his intended got out, smiling widely. Both were in morning suits and they made a beautiful couple. Reggie had met this man and fallen in love on a holiday in Mykonos. Geoff Tranter was tall, handsome and absolutely gorgeous. He was also a hard man. He was from Liverpool and he was fifteen years younger than Reggie. They were a perfect match, and Sharon adored him. It was funny, but she and Reggie had become very close and now she really relished his friendship and his humour. He was the number one now that Jack had passed away, and he was wearing his crown well. She wished him all the best.