Archie Collins joined the Club towards the end of World War II in membership year 1944 - 45. He died in December 1984 and the Programme for Spring 1985 carried the following tribute by Ossie Barrett who shared with Archie a great interest in preserved railways:

"Older members of the Club will be sorry to hear of Archie's death shortly after Christmas 1984. He was a member of the St Francis Club in the 1950s and in spite of terrible eyesight (his whole working life was spent in the Workshops for the Blind) and partial deafness, he was a remarkably cheerful character with a wide variety of interests, ranging from Grand Opera to preserved railways!

"After losing contact for many years, due to a mislaid address, the writer met Archie again at the Club's Golden Jubilee celebrations in 1980, since when he always kept in touch.

"Archie loved travel and holidayed abroad frequently, not to mention routine day shopping trips to the continent. Although his health had deteriotated over recent months news of his passing Came as a great shock as he had telephoned me only the day before his death.

May he rest in peace"

O.B.