CD in Thommy's memory
19 June 2009
Thommy Purbrook, a pupil at Oundle School in Northamptonshire, sadly died of meningocococcal disease (meningitis and septicaemia) just before Christmas.
Described by her housemaster, David Turner, as, 'a truly exceptional young woman' and headmaster Charles Bush as, 'a shining star, the finest leader and an example of for all', her loss is felt deeply by all those who knew her.
Now a tribute to Thommy comes from fellow Oundle School pupils Emily and Laura-Jane Keston. 'Words Will Never Describe' puts into words and music the feelings of so many on Thommy's passing.
With all profits from sales of the CD of the song coming to the Foundation, Emily and Laura-Jane's work will go a long way to creating a lasting legacy in Thommy's memory in the fight against meningitis and septicaemia - diseases which tragically took Thommy's life at the tender age of 18.
Find out more about the CD and order your copy.
Listen to a clip of the title track - Words Will Never Describe
Emily talks about why they wrote the song
'Whilst Thommy was alive she touched so many people she met and was the natural leader of Sanderson House. After living in the same house as Thommy for two years we grew to love her and have many memories of such an inspirational character. We've been writing songs for many years and music has been part of our lives since we can remember. On many occasions we would sit in the music room or Thommy's room and play the guitar and sing. There were even times when we tried to teach her to play the guitar- we didn't get very far, but it was fun!
'After hearing the tragic news along with the Oundle Community we were devastated and extremely shocked. We left to go skiing only a week later and knew that we had to do something to help fundraise for Meningitis Research Foundation. As we were sat on a ski lift the tune just came to us. As I (Emily) hummed a new tune L-J asked, ' What's that for?' I replied, ' Thommy's song.' All day long we separated on chair lifts from the family and every chair lift we came to we came up with a new verse. When we returned home L-J sat and composed the piano part to match with our initial song. We wanted the song to be dedicated to Thommy and it was also a way for us to express our feelings. Originally, we just thought it would be a fitting idea to distribute discs to whoever wanted one. But we soon realised that we had an opportunity to raise money and awareness for meningitis. 'Words Will Never Describe' could never have happened without so many people's support, guidance and understanding, and we are extremely thankful for this.'