As Barry Everitt prepares to exit stage left, let us hope, that for the rest of his life he remembers Irene Cockerton, who was tragically killed in a fire at Gibson Court, Esher.
No one blames Barry Everitt or Peverel/Firstport for the fire, yet the outcome could have been so different. If only's are of no comfort, but may help to prevent a future tragedy.
Whilst an unskilled member of the public may be forgiven for an action that may have unforseen consequences, this most especially does not apply to Barry Everitt, National Technical Manager, Peverel/Firstport.
Repair works to a fire curtain in the roof space of Gibson Court were never checked by the company (Peverel/Firstport) that owned the retirement home.
The Peverel/Firstport National Technical Manager (that's you Barry Everitt) relied on photographs showing the state of the fire curtain before and after the repair work rather than checking himself or asking staff to check in the roof space.
The curtain in question was destroyed by a water contractor who was unable to gain access to a tank in the loft space in 2010 and who quite properly reported the damage.
So Mr Everitt, as you head off into the sunset, remember Irene Cockerton.
Try to imagine the terror she would have felt as she hid in a cupboard in her last desperate moments, chocking from breathing in the smoke that ended her life.
Remember the on-going misery of her family, who are still devestated by their loss.
One bloody phone call, to a member of staff. That was all that was needed!
But Mr Everitt, that was too much for you to do.
As you wake up, as you go through the day, as you go to sleep, remember Irene Cockerton, Mr Everit and remember that you could have made that phone call.
