Ben Muskett

Julie and I have just returned from a short break to discover the tragic news about Ben Muskett.

Ben was a music teacher at Llanidloes High School and a member of the Montgomeryshire Labour Party. He suddenly arrived in my life a few months ago with an email that was informative, funny, methodical and it simply spoke volumes about the author. You could tell that he was a thoroughly decent and likeable young man, who had already been incredibly successful in his short life. I rang him that same afternoon and we discussed several issues including football, I remember his closing words that day were "well the Tottenham game is starting, so I'd better be off!" He knew me too well in such a short time. We exchanged several emails thereafter, I know I'll keep them all as a reminder. Ben also knew he was going to play an important part in our Assembly campaign this year and he spoke of his delight in taking on that commitment. Tragically Ben died in a road accident on the A470 on the outskirts of Dolgellau on Friday, January 14. He was just 25 years old.

I already miss him, I'm sure his family are despairing at the void he has left. I am also saddened for the pupils that Ben taught, they too have lost something special. His infectious enthusiasm will undoubtedly have left a mark on their lives that will last forever.


nick