Brothers united for the first time

6:32pm Friday 16th May 2008

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A MAN has told of his shock and amazement after discovering a brother he never knew he had.

Marlow born Duncan Dickenson, 64, of Balmorral Drive, Hayes, was contacted by someone describing himself as an amateur genealogist.

But when he spoke to Roger Plumber he got a huge surprise.

Mr Dickenson said: "In January I had a letter from an amateur genealogist. I had no inclination what it was really about. I rang this Mr Plumber and he said 'it's nice to meet you brother'.

"I just couldn't believe it. It shocked me to my roots. He was very clever the way he did it and introduced himself."

However, there was more amazement to come. The brothers discovered some incredible coincidences that left them dumbfounded.

Mr Dickenson, a retired warehouseman, said: "There's so many spooky things.

"His youngest daughter is called Davina and so is mine and they're about the same age. His daughter works for the police and mine is a solicitor, so they're both involved with the law too."

The pair also both support Tottenham Hotspur.

Mr Dickenson discovered that brother, Roger, 67, from Norfolk, was born in the house where he was brought up - in Marlow Road, Lane End.

Their mother, Alice Marion Dickenson, had given him up for adoption and never told her second son.

It had been an extremely emotional and exciting journey since learning of the incredible news about his sibling, said Mr Dickenson: " I found it really exciting and it was very emotional when we met for the first time. I was brought up as a only child. I would have loved to have had a brother or sister.

"I put my arms around him - I was overwhelmed. I think he's accepted it much better than me, perhaps he's had more time to get used to the idea."

However, he also confessed there was a painful aspect to the news. He said it was difficult to accept that it had been kept secret and that he may never have known.

The brothers now speak frequently on the 'phone and plan to make up for lost time by meeting again soon.