This piece was dedicated to his great Uncle John for whom Philip had a particular affection. A boy seaman in the First World War, he had survived sixteen hours in the sea after his ship had been sunk off Zeebrugge. In the Second World War, Uncle John again volunteered. He had many near misses and came close to death on a number of occasions. Philip only really got to know his war hero relative towards the end of his life when his sight was failing. His uncle's strong faith and his qualities of character impressed Philip.

In his last years he slowly became blind and reading and writing were difficult. Philip was particularly touched by the fact that his uncle would acknowledge his family's Christmas card by a telephone call - always apologising for not being able to write a card for them. So Philip decided to make something special in his memory.

Conceived as a figure with its arms outstretched in the form of a cross, in a welcoming pose. The figure with features that appeared sunken, was forged from one piece of steel. A candle was placed in front to give light, a focal point and a feeling of warmth. Made for a person he had valued with failing eyesight, Philip hoped that the piece might inspire a feeling of comfort and faith.