Umtamvuna Views: Author and historian Ron Lock dies

He recently wrote and published a fascinating book entitled ‘Tales of the Old East Coast from Zululand to the Cape’.

May 31, 2018

PHILIPPA MAKEPEACE 3 minutes read

Published Port Edward author and fascinating military man Ron Lock died last week.

IT OFTEN happens that one hears of a learned, interesting character when it is too late to make their acquaintance. Ron Lock (87) of Port Edward was one such man! About a year ago, Ron underwent surgery for a respiratory problem.

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Last Tuesday night, he complained of breathing issues and was taken to Margate Hospital. He was transferred to St Augustine’s Hospital in Durban early last Wednesday morning, but died soon after arrival.

Military man

Ron and his wife, Brenda, moved into Banners Rest some twelve years ago. He was born in England and spent many years in Kenya where he served with the mounted troops.

He had a keen interest in anything military and worked as a battlefields tour guide in the Rorke’s Drift area for a number of years. He loved the outdoors and wrote eight books covering the Anglo-Zulu Wars.

Fascinating tales

Ron, a well-respected historian, recently wrote and published a fascinating book entitled ‘Tales of the Old East Coast from Zululand to the Cape’.

About five years ago he recruited the technical expertise of local IT man, Arthur Wright, who transcribed, typed and listened to the stories of this extremely interesting man.

Published articles

He recently prepared and submitted ‘Battle of Hlobane’ and ‘A Boy in a Blitz’ for publication in The Armourer Magazine, which should soon be in print.

Ron was a wealth of knowledge and had a great passion for military history. Sincere condolences to his wife Brenda, his children and grandchildren.

Derek turns 70

Derek Wicks of Port Edward is a well-respected and popular member of the community. He celebrated his 70th in ‘black and white’ style last Saturday night at the Marlin Ski-boat Club. About 50 friends and family enjoyed the 70s theme with much fun and dancing.

Retired joker

His two children and spouses travelled from Durban and Gillitts to celebrate with dad. Derek is a long-term local, having worked at the Umtamvuna Water Works on Izingolweni Road for 20 years before retiring five years ago.

He is a keen bowler and has a reputation for being a practical joker.

Water non-works

On the subject of ‘water works’… the more accurate expression should read ‘water non-works’. The Golf Course Road area had no water at all for five days, followed by a little trickle for a day, followed by another totally dry day! A full week of no water, with no information or back-up supply whatsoever.

No communication

The water went off on Monday and was reported to Ugu by many affected residents. An Ugu plumber arrived on Saturday afternoon and was shocked to hear the water had been off for five days.

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He commented that he had only received notification of the problem at 11.20am on Saturday. One wonders if the Ugu staff ever communicate with each other.

Strike action

Ugu has sent out a notice warning residents of possible supply interruptions following a sudden illegal strike by workers. Be warned to stock up on bottled water and fill the water tanks.

Indestructible moles

Last week Trafalgar Garden Club spent a lovely afternoon at the Uvongo home of Dorian Barnfather and Frans Freeze. The steep two-acre property boasts gorgeous canopy trees, a rolling lawn and interesting flower beds and water features.

Members were regaled by a hilarious account by Sheila Coetser on outlandish methods she and her husband used to try to get rid of pesky moles. The overall conclusion was that moles are indestructible!

Munster goes green

Munster has managed to secure a recycling system through the municipality. Clear plastic bags can be collected from the Leisure Bay municipal offices on Fridays only.

Remember to bring your rates account. Bags will be collected from pavements. Munster has also received a municipal grant-in-aid of R4 000 which will be used to employ a worker to remove invasive alien plants from key areas. All news to Philippa.