Although the latest issue of Chat magazine focusses largely on his relationship with his wife Stephanie, which is afterall in keeping with it’s readers, they did ask Simon a few questions. So while this may not be a direct message from Simon for the site, it is his latest public comments. We would have posted it sooner but it is only right that we waited until the Chat magazine was released before doing so.
How did you feel when you were charged with murder?
After two days of questioning the duty solicitor informed me that I was to be charged with the murder of Joan Albert. I was still in a state of shock and bewilderment and I can remember when asked to make any comments to which I said ‘this is all bullshit.’
I was told I would be in magistrates court in the morning, which was the Saturday. I knew then that I would not be getting bail and would be going to norwich prison on remand. My whole body was filled with a nausea’s sense of dread. I broke down wondering ‘why’ and ‘how’ is this happening, it was a feeling i cant really describe. The police hadn’t listened to a word I had said they just seemed hell bent on putting this on me. I was alone and it felt like everyone was against me. The dirty looks I got off of all the officers indicated disgust and I really felt like I was public enemy number one, even though this was one big mistake!
How did you feel the day you married in prison?
Getting married in prison might seem crazy to many people but it was the best thing that’s happened to me. I remember waiting to go into the visits room where the ceremony would take place and the priest who happened to be passing said i looked as white as a ghost. It was true all the colour had drained from my face and to say I was nervous would be an understatement. When Stephanie came in the room, I turned round to see her walking towards me and my heart skipped a beat, she looked absolutely stunning and the vision took my breath away. I can see it my mind as though it was yesterday, her dress, her heels, her hair and her face and that smile that just melts my heart. I was shaking a little right through the ceremony I couldn’t keep my eyes off her.
What are your thoughts about the future?
Marrying Stephanie has given me so much hope for the future. At that time we had no idea that the case would be referred back to the Appeal Court so we were preparing for another 6 and a half plus years apart. We knew we could do it though because of our motto, “stronger together” which we most definately are. Stephanie has made prison life just that little bit easier to bare. Her letters every day keep my spirits up and our visits give us both some respite from the lonliness. I love her with all my heart. I hope that one day soon we will be together again and we can live our lives how they should be lived. Start a family move to the country side, where we can enjoy a quiet and peaceful life, get a dog and go for walks. (smile ) After this nightmare we both deserve some peace and quiet so we can enjoy each others company without some nosey prison officer staring at us all of the time.
Many thanks to Chat magazine for covering this story.