Taking a break - Sir Julian and wife Paddy pictured by the River Thames in the mid-1980s

TODAY'S Memories spread puts the spotlight on an influential figure in north Essex politics.

Sir Julian Ridsdale was the Conservative MP for Harwich for nearly 40 years, until he stood down in 1992.

A Thatcherite backbencher with a keen interest in Japan, Sir Julian was knighted in 1981.

For many years, he lived in St Osyth with wife Paddy, his constituency secretary and the inspiration for Ian Fleming's Miss Moneypenny character.

Sir Julian died in 2004 while Lady Ridsdale, later made a Dame for political services in 1991, passed away in 2009.

* Join us on a trip down memory lane. If you have old photos and stories to share with our readers, simply complete our online form or join our We grew up in Essex Facebook group

Harwich and Manningtree Standard:

Sealed with a kiss - Paddy congratulates her husband after his election victory in May 1979

Harwich and Manningtree Standard:

Big moment - Sir Julian opened Hanover Court, in Dovercourt, in May 1990

Harwich and Manningtree Standard:

Hook, line and sinker - Sir Julian and Paddy try their hand at fishing in 1974

Harwich and Manningtree Standard:

Proud moment - Sir Julian has every reason to smile after being awarded his knighthood in July 1981

Harwich and Manningtree Standard:

Special occasion - Sir Julian at the Frinton Conservative Club fete in July 1982, to mark the association’s 30th anniversary

Harwich and Manningtree Standard:

Official duty - Sir Julian and wife Paddy were on hand to unveil the Samuel Pepys plaque outside Harwich town hall, in February 1982

Harwich and Manningtree Standard:

Holding the baby - Sir Julian paid a special visit to Clacton maternity home in October 1984