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'Bubbles' (October 2005 edition of the magazine)
"Captain Robinson ... had been connected with the Territorials since he was 19. On receiving his Commission he took up the work with great sympathy, and passed at Hythe and Chelsea .... Immediately, Lieut. Robinson, as he was then, returned home and joined his unit, being placed in command of the machine gun section. He proceeded to France with his battalion, and when the machine guns were drawn from the various units and formed into a separate body at the end of last year, he was given command of the gun brigade, which included eight officers and 170 men. His promotion to a captaincy was dated October 15th, 1915.' The Battle of the Somme, which started in late June 1916, was one of the bloodiest and most costly episodes in British military history. With the benefit of hindsight, it is easy for us to see where mistakes were made and hopes raised too high, but at the time, things were not as clear as all that. Initially, heavy firing against German wires, emplacements, trenches etc suggested that real progress was being made in breaking through their defences in preparation for the "real" attack. However, poor weather, unreliable information and delayed action allowed enemy placements to be strengthened and when the battle proper began on 1st July; the situation was far from well prepared. Little wonder, then, that at the end of that day: "this opening attack was in terms of casualties the worst day in British military history matched only perhaps by the fall of Singapore in 1942. The British Official History records the totals, having compiled the numbers from Part II Battalion Orders of each unit involved: 19,240 men died on the day, and the total loss including wounded, prisoners and missing was 57,470,"' (www.1914- 1918.net) What was our hero "Bubbles" doing at this time? Well, it was mid-morning when he went "over the top". Apparently he came within 3 or 4 yards of the German line, but was wounded in the stomach and hung up on the enemy wire. A Medical Officer, Captain John Green, although wounded himself, managed to get Captain Robinson down and dressed his wounds in a shell hole, before trying to move him, under heavy fire, back to their own lines. In doing so. Captain Green was killed (and posthumously awarded the VC for his actions). Further help was offered by Sgt J F Smith, who came from Derby Road, Ripley. He too was recommended for conspicuous bravery in trying to get Captain Robinson back to safety. Although being bombed by the enemy, Sgt Smith managed to carry out his officer, but unfortunately Captain Robinson sustained further injuries and died of his wounds two days later. With such enormous numbers of young men dying in the war, doubtless many families received the same bitter news as "Bubbles'" parents: 'Widespread sympathy is felt with Major and Mrs. W.B. Robinson, Elm Lodge, Brampton, Chesterfield, in the death of their only son, Capt. Frank B. Robinson, who is reported to have died of wounds on Monday last. The sad news reached Elm Lodge on Tuesday, when a telegram was received from the Territorial Records' Office. Lichfield, as follows - "Regret to inform you that Captain Robinson, Sherwood Foresters, died of wounds on 3rd July. The Prime Minister expresses his sympathy." (Derbyshire Times, 8th July 1916). We don't know what Frank Bradbury Robinson might have achieved in his life if the Great War had not intervened. We don't even know how or why he got his nickname of "Bubbles" We only know that he went out to do his duty when it mattered and that he was clearly respected by his men as a good leader. Did he actually die "bravely cheering and leading on his men"? I'd like to think so, no matter how foolhardy that may seem to us now. Perhaps he is best summed up by Sgt Smith, who tried to save him: "He was a gentleman". Angie McGovern Doug Inger (August 1992 edition of the magazine) Christian - husband, father, grandfather, librarian, editor, crowngreen bowler, gardener, friend. When I think of Doug Inger, all these and many other qualities spring to mind. Doug will be sadly missed in many areas of Brampton life. His sunny personality and sensitive nature endeared him to all he met. Under his editorial expertise this magazine flourished to the point where last year it won Magazine of the Year' for the diocese of Derby. Typically, he attributed its success to the contributors, not to his own tireless efforts. Grateful as we are for his work, it is for his love of people that he will be remembered most. All of us who knew Doug, in his regrettably short life, have been enriched by his friendship. The world is poorer for his passing, but for those of us fortunate enough to have known him, our lives are richer for the knowing. John Lenthall Ken Waddington (August 1992 edition of the magazine) Fifteen years ago the congregation at St. John's was so small that the then incumbent seriously considered closing the church. He reckoned without Ken Waddington. Ken, along with a few members of the congregation worked hard to establish a regular 9.00am. Holy Communion service and his commitment to St. John's continued over the years. As Church Warden Ken carried out his duties with a quiet dignity that endeared him to everyone. Whatever has been done at St. John's, Ken has been involved. He steered the first building project of the Porch Extension through to completion and was a valued member of the Church Centre Building Committee. Ken mowed the grass, his ladders were always available and no failed light bulb went unnoticed. A few days before he died he chose the hymns for the Sunday Service, such was Ken's courage and faith. We miss him. We read in St. John's Gospel those comforting words Jesus spoke to his Disciples "In my Fathers house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you." I am sure in Ken's room everything will be in good order and the lamps will be shining brightly. We thank God for Ken's life and for the privilege of knowing him. Mavis Clough Joyce Crowther Remembered (June 1998 edition of the Church Magazine) Joyce died at the end of January this year. [1998] We at St. Thomas knew Joyce Crowther for that all too short a time - her retirement. She had been a teacher and her love of knowledge and her joy in the sharing of it qualified her well for her career. Throughout her adult life this meditative Christian brought these same qualities to her approach to faith, not for her the easy path of quiet acceptance rather one of searching into the heart of faith and deep into her own heart for its response. Joyce had three centres to her life; family, faith and friends. Her loyalty- to all three was the joy of her life and an inspiration to all who came into contact with her. Her faith did not lead her to easy paths but to helping to found the bereavement visiting group seeking to meet the needs of those in their darkest hours. Her contribution as a long standing member of the P.C.C. and its worship group was valued by all who served with her. I miss her leadership of the Monday breakfast meditation. The carefully chosen readings beautifully read often bringing new and deeper understanding just by being read so well. Her homemade wholemeal toasted bread and homemade marmalade was a treat!. It was near the end of her life that I saw most clearly the part faith played in Joyce's life. Visiting her in hospital she told me how, after a brush with death a little earlier when she had a pulmonary embolism, she had felt disappointed that after so much devoted effort to preserve her life she was gravely impaired and dependent. But then in a sleepless hospital night she had realised the true purpose of the extra time she had been given. She felt an enormous wave of love sweeping over her from family and friends. She knew the source and was determined to devote her remaining time to obeying the first rule of love - the receiving of it. She spoke of her fear of impending death and of the coward she felt; but who can be a coward who when acknowledging their fear, turn their face steadfastly toward it. I saw Joyce only once more in her home surrounded by that love of which we had spoken, feeling privileged to be sharing in it. Joyce spent her last week in Ashgate Hospice where her family and friends who saw her there tell me how loved and cared for she felt. I add my grateful thanks to that organisation and its staff for the care and love shown to Joyce and all committed to their care. Those of us who knew Joyce are the richer for the knowing; the poorer for her passing. Rest in peace sister in Christ. John Lenthall Remembering Mavis Martin (February 2000 edition of the Church Magazine) Mavis died on 6 December 1999, a huge blow to St Peter's. Her funeral, the first in the newly extended St Peter's, was packed, standing room only, with her numerous friends and admirers. Judith Henderson has sent us this appreciation. Mavis has been at the heart of St Peter's, Holymoorside in recent years. She had a very special ministry of welcoming and noticing and was the one who knew when someone was missing. She always spoke to newcomers and made sure they felt welcome. Her ministry of prayer was also a great gift, immediately responsive to any request and vigilant in following up with regular contacts. Reading and leading prayers in the evening service particularly was a lovely enhancement to our worship. All the new babies were always taken to Mavis for a special blessing and she had many lively friendships with the very young and their parents. She had her own special letter-writing ministry with Amnesty International. A real concern for international justice was an important part of her life. Mavis was very gifted making individual cards for every Church activity and using her beautiful italic script. Cake stalls were also her forte and, quietly assisting Harry, she adorned the Church for festivals - having her little flower box at the ready. She supported every aspect of Churches Together, especially Communion and Coffee, which she helped to initiate. It was her idea that the under 5s should be called Little Lambs! The Tuesday group gave her an opportunity to study the Bible and to discuss theology - often controversially - but she was always able to return the conversation to basic Christian principles. The building of the new extension to St Peter's was at the centre of her thoughts in recent times. She really longed to see the plans come to fruition. On the DCC, she was a tower of strength, believing that, if it was the will of God, then it would be fulfilled. She had more than 50 years married life and she and Harry together have made a home and niche in the community which has been a haven for many. Always, willing to encourage and appreciate, she was a good friend and, despite all her recent trials, faith and trust in God remained strong. In a letter just before she died she said that she knew that the decision of those who were caring for her at the hospital would always be in her best interests. It was the best interests of the Church family which motivated her life. I'm so glad that she lived long enough to see the rededication of St Peter's and in a sense that she now has the rest and peace she richly deserves Judith Henderson Remembering Jill Robinson (February 2001 edition of the Church Magazine) After several strokes and being ill for a long time, Jill Robinson died on Boxing Day [2000]. So many people were so fond of Jill and we have all found it hard to bear. A Service of Thanksgiving was held at St Thomas'. This was described by many as the most enjoyable funeral they had ever attended. Tears were, of course, never far from the surface but there was plenty of laughter too - as there always was with Jill! We thanked God for her humour, generosity and love. We acknowledged with gratitude her radiant, much tested faith - and her agonised questioning. Her husband Richard bravely, amusingly and movingly talked about Jill and urged listeners to turn to Jesus before it was too late. Ray Hearn, in his tribute, described Jill as a "magnetic impressionist": magnetic because she drew people the church was packed for her funeral - and impressionist because she always made an impression! Thank you, Father, for Jill and for the truth that "our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us". Christopher Frith Remembering Horrace Totterdale (April 2001 edition of the Church Magazine) After many years of heart trouble, Horace Totterdell died in January [2001]. Here are extracts from tributes by two of our Readers. Horace and Joyce were always seen together at St Thomas' gatherings (except World Mission Committee and Men's Breakfast!) She was his beloved wife and constant companion. When they came to us seven years ago, most of Horace's service in Christ was completed. I treasure personal impressions of his last few years: love for his Lord, practical love, honest and straight speaking, cheerfulness, courage, commitment, fine craftsmanship, involvement in the Chesterfield Tsumeb Association (Horace loved Africa). He was a great reader and writer to the end, a much-loved husband and father, grandfather and friend. I thank my God for every memory of him. Ray Hearn My friendship with Horace sprang from our membership of St Thomas' World Mission Committee. He encouraged us to consider carefully our policies, seeking to benefit from the accumulated knowledge and experience of those who had gone before. He once said something like this to me: that all the great Missionary Leaders to whom he had looked up in his earlier years had gone off and died. Now the work was left to us inadequate sinners to carry it on. In fact, the World Mission Committee and other did benefit greatly from his own knowledge and experience. Horace had been General Secretary of the Africa Evangelical Fellowship for many years and he knew the importance of teamwork. He was a great believer in the biblical idea that the "sending" church should maintain its links with and its prayerful support for mission workers who have been sent out from its midst. John Goodacre Remembering Roger Key and Betty Fox -Father and daughter from St Peter's (October 2002 edition of the Church Magazine) Roger Key 1940 - 2002 Heather Fox 1966 - 2002 Roger was a much-loved and respected member of St-Peter's church, and indeed, throughout the whole village of Holymoorside. He lived in the village with his wife Betty for 39 years, and it was here they raised their daughters, Heather and Sarah. He was well known in the area through his job of 25 years as a milkman, and then helping his brother-in-law, the builder Howard (Tom) Stockton. Roger helped in the construction of the new church centre at St. John's and latterly played a great part in the extension at St. Peter's. Both Roger and Betty were confirmed under Christopher Frith and became active members of St.Peter's, with Roger taking over as church warden. This job, as many people are aware, is demanding in so many ways, in order to ensure the efficient running of the church. Roger was initially reluctant to take on this role but was soon able to put his many skills and affable personality to great use. His often heard phrase "Oh! We can tackle that "or "I know someone who can", was his response when help was needed. Once settled into his role, his worth was obvious to one and all. Devoted and proud of his church, he was always approachable, direct and positive. Roger was strong, physically, spiritually and emotionally, as exemplified in his attitude when faced with his illness, cancer of the esophagus. Roger played a vital role together with our other church warden, Ian Wright, in our new church building, organizing and helping teams to decorate and clean. He certainly left his mark on the building, quite literally, when a pot of black paint, left unnoticed on top of some scaffolding, fell on top of him and covered him from head to foot. To this day the blackened floorboards remain as a mark of this event, fortunately beneath the carpet! Ours has been a double tragedy at St.Peter's and in the village of Holymoorside, as Roger's daughter Heather, died only a week after him. Heather was a `chip off the old block', with her father's generosity of spirit and strength of character in facing and fighting her own cancer. Their illnesses seemed intertwined, with Heather being diagnosed as Roger left hospital. They supported and encouraged each other along the way and Heather's words at the death of her father, "I have lost my rock" seem now all the more poignant. Heather too was an active member of St.Peter's, helping in Sunday club and also the church D.C.C. She leaves two daughters, Alex and Ellie, with the precious memory of a mother who was courageous and loving in the face of great adversity, and her husband John who was also devoted to her. Roger and Heather will both be dearly missed, and it seems appropriate that they are buried side by side, in what Alex and Ellie call the `church garden', clearly visible through the altar window of the church they both loved and which loved them. Polly Ryan. A Tribute to Brenda Dawson -by Sarah Dawson (October 2003 edition of the Church Magazine) Trying to write a fitting tribute to my mum has proved to be quite a difficult thing to achieve in just a few short paragraphs. However, I will try to at least describe just some of the amazing characteristics that my mum, a truly extra-ordinary lady, had. Mum always had a great love for life. This shone through in her love for spending time with her friends and family, her unfailing enthusiasm in almost everything she did be it work or play, in her passion in travelling to exotic places in the world, her love of shopping (!) and great love of parties. Determination was another attribute that mum showed in everything she did, particularly during the last year of her life. This determination and great strength of character rewarded her with several happy months of respite from her illness when she was able to fulfil dreams, have great weekends away with Dad, still care so much for her family and of course shop some more too! I will always feel immense admiration for a mum who had so much life, ambition, courage and happiness throughout such a cruel and tiring illness. Dignity was definitely a characteristic that mum carried through with her right to the end. Not only showed within her selflessness and positive attitude but also in her amazing ability to always look so good! She will always remain my excuse to have matching shoes and handbags! I could only dream to be half the woman that my mum was. An amazing teacher, a fantastic friend, a loving wife, a fun sister, a caring daughter, an unbelievable mum and much, much more. I will always miss my mum more than anything I can imagine but am eternally comforted by the fact that mum is at long last experiencing the rest and peace that she so truly deserves. Mrs Gladys Hawley (June 2004 edition of the Church Magazine) We were saddened to learn of the death on 28 April 2004 of Mrs Gladys Hawley, aged 112 years and 4 months. Until her death Gladys was the oldest person in the country and up to her 100th birthday, Gladys regularly attended the 8.00 am service at St Thomas. The committal service was held at Boythorpe Cemetery on Tuesday 11 May. Alison Prentice (February 2007 edition of the Church Magazine) Alison was a longstanding member of St Thomas’. She died in December leaving husband John and two children, Andrew and Vicky.
In her work Alison was a true professional and it was obvious that she carried her Christian faith through into the work she did. (Alison was the Chief Crown Prosecutor for Lincolnshire before she retired.) After the morning service she would often discuss issues thrown up by the cases she was working on at the time and whilst much of her work was serious, Alison often managed to describe some of the lighter moments over a cup of coffee. Others recognised her contribution too and in 2004 she enjoyed a high point in her life being awarded a CBE in the Queen’s birthday honours list. Despite the pressures that work undoubtedly imposed on her, often when one called round at her house in the evening she could be seen working on her paperwork through the dining room window, she found time to devote to herself other interests. A keen gardener she could rightly be proud of the magnificent array of colour that her garden proffered in the summer. Alison was a fabulous support to John in his folk singing, deriving great joy from attending the folk festivals around the country and meeting up with friends at these musical extravaganzas. In recent times photography also started to become a real hobby for her. Along with many others we will miss Alison greatly. We will miss her great company, her forthright views, her resoluteness which she brought to anything she tackled. The church will miss her energy and her practical approach and valuable gifts on the PCC. Her fortitude through the final stages of her illness will not be forgotten and her lifelong faith gave strength to her and inspiration to us all. Andrew Travis A Service of Thanksgiving for Alison was held on 6 December 2006. Listen to the service here  View the Order of Service  Listen to John's thanks here
Jack Hemmings 1919-2008 (October 2008 edition of the Church Magazine) Jack Hemmings, one of our long standing church family members, died recently. This tribute to Jack has been compiled with help from Rev Christopher Frith.
Jack managed to escape three times: his first two attempts resulted in re-capture and long spells in solitary confinement. Undaunted Jack made a third bid for freedom and this time he was successful. He eventually met up with the Americans who used him as an interpreter. Jack has entertained many people with stories of his exploits as a POW -always amusing, always underplaying his bravery in difficult and dangerous situations After a short repatriation leave in 1945 Jack was sent to Dusseldorf to assist in de-Nazifying people before they could obtain employment. On returning home Jack took advantage of the government sponsored Teacher Training Scheme. He trained in Sheffield, qualifying to teach first in junior and then in secondary schools. Jack began his teaching career here in Brampton at Old Hall School. He then went on to teach English and drama at his old school, William Rhodes. Some years later Jack became careers master at the Manor, another local secondary school. Jack had a life-long interest and active involvement in sport; especially football and cricket. He achieved distinction as a soccer referee at three schoolboy internationals. Jack also refereed and was a linesman at top league level until 1960 and continued refereeing at local level into his sixties. Jack was a long time player, chairman and later president of Chesterfield Barbarians' Cricket Club. Many St Thomas' members will remember Jack as umpire at our church cricket matches when the Rector's XI played the Curate's XI - all his decisions were absolutely spot-on and fair! Jack was well known to many through teaching and sport and among his claims to fame was that of being a friend to sports stars, including Arsenal goal keeper (ex Chesterfield schoolboy) Bob Wilson, FIFA football supremo Geoff Thompson and former England cricketer Geoff Miller. Jack's funeral on 6 August was conducted by The Rev Canon Christopher J C Frith and attended by many family members, friends and representatives of the various organisations that he was involved with. Among the tributes paid to him were those of “wonderful neighbour”, “very dear friend”, “always willing to help”, “always willing to listen”, “always interested”, “he was just Jack”. Everyone respected Jack, whoever they were, wherever they met him. Along with his wife, Mary, Jack has been a long standing and faithful member of St Thomas'. Our church family is the poorer for his passing; we extend our love and sympathy to Mary and to Mark, Jack's son. The interview Face to face with Jack Hemmings appeared in the February 1998 edition of Ploughshare. You can read it here. Bishop Jonathan Bailey 1940-2008 (February 2009 edition of the Church Magazine) Bishop Jonathan was the former Bishop of Derby.
His stay in Suffolk was brief, and in 1995 he became Bishop of Derby. He made an immediate impact and will be remembered for his ‘Bishop on a Mission’ tour when he visited supermarkets, pubs, a theme park and nightclubs across Derbyshire including the Zanzibar Nightclub in Chesterfield. He helped to establish the Derby multifaith centre and was a governor of Derby University, which awarded him an honorary doctorate. Bishop Jonathan was known as a pastoral and caring bishop who remembered people’s names and mixed with all ages and faiths. On the national scene he was for three years the chairman of the Churches Main Committee, which acts as a liaison group between all the churches and government departments. During his time in Derby, he was also Clerk to the Closet, a role that involves advising the Queen about the appointment of her Honorary Chaplains. For this work he was appointed a KCVO (Knight Commander of the Royal Victorian Order). He was a member of the House of Lords from 1999 to 2005. He retired to Gloucestershire in 2005, where he was an assistant bishop. He also served on the Gloucester Police Authority. Bishop Jonathan married Susan Bennett-Jones in 1965. She was ordained in 1994, making him the first diocesan bishop to have a wife who was a priest. She worked in the Derby diocese, both in parishes and as chaplain of the Derby Diocesan Retreat house. He is survived by Susan and their three sons. Bishop Jonathan was a keen bee keeper –at one time he owned over 60,000 bees. Bishop Jonathan’s funeral was on Monday, 22 December in Gloucester Cathedral. A memorial service is to be held in Derby Cathedral in 2009. Glyn Botham 1944-2009 (October 2009 edition of the Church Magazine) Glyn Botham, a regular and long standing member of St Thomas’ died at the beginning of August, aged 64. His brothers, Neil and Stephen have written a personal tribute about Glyn and Rosie Welch has written about our memories of Glyn on behalf of all who knew him at St Thomas’.
We have heard it said that Glyn was quiet, shy, reserved, unassuming and even slightly eccentric. However those of us that knew Glyn well saw a totally different side to his complex character. On the many climbing/hiking trips to Scotland which Glyn took part in with me and my friends he was always totally enthusiastic; the first to arise early every morning, singing his beloved Wesley hymns (loudly) and pestering us to get up and to use one of his phrases “get out on the hill”. Glyn was also a person who cared about things that were happening around us. This became evident to us when, sorting through his papers; we found copies of dozens of letters to local MPs, politicians, prime ministers and even the Queen. Letters ranging from injustice and the persecution of Christians in other countries, to matters affecting the environment -a subject which concerned him deeply. Stephen and myself were both touched to see so many at Glyn’s funeral and to receive so many cards and letters of support. Many thought that Glyn was a lonely man, but he was dear to the hearts of, and held in high regard by, so many people. When you come to the end of your journey in life as a Christian, one of the greatest accolades that you can receive is the phrase “They will be missed”. We know that our brother Glyn will be missed by many people, and that heaven will be enriched his presence. Neil and Stephen Botham On behalf of all the Ploughshare readers we send our sympathy to Neil and Stephen and all of Glyn’s relatives and friends. We endorse wholeheartedly the comments made about Glyn. -Editor Glyn worshipped at St Thomas’ for several years. Many church members were away or unable to attend his funeral on 12th August but this is a collection of many people’s fond memories and appreciation. Though always quiet and unassuming, Glyn was a very involved and active member of St Thomas’ church and the wider church community. Many people remember his interest and care for those he taught, both in schools and church, with his amazing memory and great sensitivity. He is remembered for his dedicated work with numerous holiday and summer clubs, as well as the weekly Cosmic Club for 7-11 year olds. He was a real team worker, and was liked and respected by the children. The older youth of St Thomas’ who set up Furnace, the monthly worship and sharing evening, were very aware of Glyn’s support and his encouragement in this venture. There are people too who remember Glyn for being the first person to welcome them when they came to St Thomas’. Glyn befriended people and families with prayer, love and practical support, but (again) always quietly and unassumingly. In his home group Glyn is remembered as a quiet, humble and loyal member whose contributions were always wise, loving and encouraging. He will be greatly missed. Many will know of Glyn’s concern and passion for the persecuted church, and particularly his support of the organisation Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW). He led his home group in support of CSW’s work, inspiring them to letter writing and lobbying political parties. He attended the CSW annual conferences, and became St Thomas’ representative, organising visiting speakers from time to time, raising the profile of the sufferings of the persecuted church through his compassion and concern. He was also I interested in other world mission and relief organisations; and, nearer to home, in the calling and mission of individuals in the church, including the Church on the Bus in Chesterfield. Glyn did many things besides: he helped out, washed up, turned up, prepared and prayed, and doubtless other things of which we are not aware (for example: did you know he helped proof read Gaynor Robert’s book ‘The Herodian Stones’?). Many people described Glyn as reserved, shy, self-effacing, un-assuming and modest, and many felt that they didn’t know him very well. He may have been all those things, but his actions speak for him as a sincere and faithful ‘evangelical Christian’ -Glyn’s choice of words, -even witnessing to the hospice staff of his assurance of life after death and trusting his life to God’s hands. It is sadly ironic -and perhaps something to learn from -that many of us got to know Glyn much more in his last few weeks. Whilst we were all shocked by his rapid illness, true to form, Glyn was moved and overwhelmed by the love and care shown to him by so many in these last few weeks. We remember his family and friends in prayer at this time of mourning, but rejoice that his suffering is over, and that he has gone to be with his Saviour and our God for ever. Rosie Welch Terry May 1939-2010 (June 2010 edition of the Church Magazine) Terry May died suddenly on 23 March 2010 aged seventy. Terry was probably best known to most of us for his involvement with the 3rd Brampton (St Thomas’) Scout Troop which stretched over fifty seven years. Ben Widdowson, the current Group Scout Leader, has written this tribute to Terry.
Terry had a lifelong association with the 3rd Brampton Scout Group, joining the Group in 1952, 3 years after it was established by St Thomas’ Rector at the time, Rev John Dawson Hooley. In 1953 Terry, aged thirteen, attended the first Group camp at Hathersage, sleeping in a tent bought from the Wakefield Army Stores at a cost of £8! I’m sure that if you look hard enough in the scout store you will still find this tent as Terry found it extremely hard to throw anything away. “There is always a use for things you never know you might need again”, he would say. Terry’s scouting career included his appointments as Assistant Scout Master, Rover Scout Master and from 1977 Group Scout Leader for 3rd Brampton. AsGroup Scout Leader he oversaw the running of all sections of the scout group. During his tenure 3rd Brampton experienced a phenomenal growth and became one of the largest Groups in the district. He was very active and forward thinking and the group was one of the first in the district to introduce Beaver Scouting for the six to eight year olds. The group boasted two large and successful Cub Scout Packs, the Hipper and Rother, and was renowned for its high standards and ability to perform well in District competitions. In 2001 his achievements were recognised by the National Scout Association. He was awarded the Silver Wolf for exceptional service by the Chief Scout. This is the highest award for service to the Scout Association. In 2007, at the Pentecost Sunday service at St Thomas’, I was honoured to be able to confer on him the honorary title of Group President for the 3rd Brampton in recognition for his service to the Group. At Terry’s funeral, St Thomas’ church was full to capacity; an indication of the mark made on us all by his character and personality. His presence and advice will be sorely missed by us all. The collection at the funeral raised over £900. This has been split between the British Heart Foundation and the Scout Group. The Group have invested their share of the money in two replacement BURCO gas boilers as Terry had often commented that they were long overdue for replacement! Ben Widdowson Group Scout Leader, 3rd Brampton (St Thomas’) Scout Group The Quiet American (December 2010 edition of the Church Magazine) Robin Dawson, one of our church members, spent two years in Afghanistan working as a volunteer for the International Assistance Mission. Here he writes a tribute to one of the people whom he got to know. I arrived in snowy, muddy, dusty Kabul in March 2005. I went to do some post-retirement volunteering with the International Assistance Mission. (IAM is a Christian organisation that has worked in Afghanistan since the 1960s and does so with full Afghan government approval.) I was well looked after and was invited to dinner by many people. One evening I dined with Tom and Libby Little. It was a good, friendly meal in a room full of books and examples of Afghan craftsmanship. Tom was a quiet American. He was a Yankee for whom the word laconic could have been invented. He didn’t say much, but what he did say was always interesting and useful. And he liked long wheelbase Land Rovers! Later I found out that Tom and Libby had worked in Afghanistan for over thirty years, before the communist coup, through the Russian occupation, the civil war, Taliban rule and now in the present situation. They had brought up three children in the country. There were all sorts of stories about the family including Tom rescuing medical equipment from a hospital that was under fire and his little girls making cookies for the secret police watching their house. In the seventies Tom and Libby had run a sort of rescue operation for indigent hippies as well as Tom doing his day job. I met one such hippy who had become an aid worker himself. Tom was a fluent Dari speaker and was the sort of person that foreign correspondents and travel writers sought out to get the real story. When he talked about being a Christian it was obvious that he had a very deep and intellectually coherent faith. I suppose he became my Christian aid worker hero. He worked for NOOR, the eye care part of IAM’s work. Since the sixties NOOR has treated the eye complaints of over 5 million Afghans and are responsible for running training hospitals and a large part of the eye care work in Afghanistan. Every couple of years or so Tom would organise a party that would hike off with donkeys to far beyond the end of the road network to treat the eye complaints of people who never ever saw a doctor or even a nurse. Lots of people loved to go on these eye camps. In August 2010 Tom organised one such camp in Nuristan in North-East Afghanistan. As is usual the government was informed as were, by various means, the armed groups in the area. As Tom and his party were travelling back, having finished their work, they were held up, robbed and all killed. The Taliban Head Office in Kandahar issued a statement saying that they hadbeen executed because they were trying to convert people to Christianity. A week or so later the local Taliban contradicted this message, stating that those charges were untrue and that the people concerned had been bona fide aid workers working for the good of the Afghan population. So now Tom Little’s body lies in the Christian cemetery in Kabul along with another larger than life character, Dan Terry and a number of their colleagues. The World Council of Optometry has posthumously awarded Tom the title of International Optometrist of the Year. But NOOR struggles to find someone to replace him and there won’t be any more eye camps. We live in a world where evil things happen. Tom had seen plenty and he knew what could happen to him. But he knew he had a job to do and he did it. 
One of our Australian colleagues in IAM wrote this poem on learning of his death. You told the newcomers: “Take due care, but once you accept the fact that you could die out here, it makes it a whole lot easier.” In the reality of that advice you washed so many feet, You co-healed so many eyes. For you to live was Christ, and despite the pain of those you love, who now remain to mourn, and ask, “Why Lord? Why?” the Potter speaks to us, his clay, “Tom is with me in paradise today. To die is gain, and when my time for you is right, you will also hear my, ‘Well done daughter. Well done son,’ and together we will drink green tea, and enjoy the cardamom,” you and Tom and Me.” NOOR means ‘light’ in Persian and it reflects their goal of bringing light to those who live in the darkness of preventable blindness. Christine Cowley 1945-2010 (December 2010 edition of the Church Magazine) Christine (Chris) Cowley, one of the longest serving members of St Thomas’, died on 29 September 2010, aged sixty five. The church for her funeral -a Service of Love and Thanksgiving, was full, showing just how much she was loved and respected. As well as Chris’ family there were those who knew her from all aspects of her life, including friends and neighbours, those from church, St Mary’s School where she taught and Staveley Hockey Club where she was the coach. Catherine Hill, Chris’ daughter has written this tribute to her mother.
Mum’s Christian faith was at the centre of everything she did and of all her relationships. St Thomas’ was such a big part of her life. She first started attending during the mid 1970s. A couple of years later, soon after Chris and I were born, she began to feel very strongly that children should really enjoy church and have the opportunity to learn about Jesus in a way they could understand and relate to. Her natural instinct to teach soon meant she was taking a leading role in the Sunday school. She did this for many years and in the early 1990s she was on the organising committees for the ‘Rainbow Parties’ and the first ‘Summer Clubs’ held by the church. She felt these were an extremely important part of the church’s ministry to children and outreach to the wider community. As Chris and I grew up and moved away from home she took on a new role within the church as part of the Welcome Team; the perfect place for such a friendly, chatty and warm person. I’m certain many who nervously walked up the slope to those heavy wooden doors were immediately put at ease when they saw her smiling face and heard her cheery welcome. She attended St Thomas’ for over thirty years and God always seemed to guide her to where she could be most effective within His church. She will be much missed by many. Catherine Hill On behalf of all Ploughshare readers I offer our thoughts and prayers to Jim, Christopher, Catherine, Nathaniel and all their other relatives and friends at this time. Mark Hoare, Editor What is a Mum? Taken from the Service of Love and Thanksgiving to Celebrate Chris’ Life. A mum is one of life's best gifts, Someone to treasure all life through, She's caring and loving, Thoughtful and true, Someone who is always a special part of your life, Someone who holds a prime place in your heart, She's a mentor, a confident and also a friend, Someone on whose love you can depend. A mum always has your best interests at heart, She's someone so dear and so good, She's a blessing, she's a gift, She's a treasure like no other, She's someone that is truly wonderful. Wherever you go, and whatever you do, A mum’s love will always see you through, A mum is truly invaluable, Indispensable and unforgettable. I wouldn't want anyone but you, And that's why I'm so grateful, that life picked you for me. Keith Bates 1934-2010 (February 2011 edition of the Church Magazine) In the last edition of Ploughshare reference was made to the death in November of Keith Bates, our Choir Master. Tim Taylor, a member of the choir and a good friend of Keith, has coordinated this tribute.
Keith’s second marriage, to Maureen, took place at St Thomas’ in 1980. They shared many interests: church life (both at St Thomas’ and the Church of the Annunciation), a love of dancing, a love of Austria and of music, especially singing. They both sang in the Holymoorside Choral Society for several years, and it was this love of music that prompted Keith to agree to becoming ‘temporary’ Choir Master at St Thomas’ in 1989, a position he held until his eventual resignation in October of last year. This surely re-defines the meaning of the word ‘temporary’! However it was typical of Keith’s outlook on life, for whatever he turned his hand to, it was invariably carried out with great enthusiasm and commitment. As Choir Master music was always carefully chosen and practices disciplined and structured. As well as learning the music, Keith was always keen that the choir members understood the ‘mechanics’ of the performance –how to enter the church, where to sit, how to recess and so on. All had to be done properly and correctly. Keith always encouraged choir members to give of their best and over the years a strong bond developed. Keith led us, we supported him and neither wished to let the other down. Keith’s other great interest was sport. He played football, hockey, badminton, squash, cricket for the Barbarians and tennis until curtailed by his illness. A true all-rounder! Keith died peacefully at Ashgate Hospice on November the fifth last year, having been superbly cared for throughout his illness by Maureen and a dedicated group of professionals. Keith’s care, commitment, integrity and wisdom will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Tim Taylor Thank You Maureen Bates writes... I would like to thank everyone at St Thomas' for their support and wonderful contribution to Keith's funeral which was a magnificent and fitting occasion. My particular thanks go to the augmented choir for their wonderful singing, both at the funeral and the carol service. Keith's heart was always with ‘his’ choir and he would have been so proud of you all. Thanks also to Gaz, Philip and Mark for making it possible for friends in Austria to listen to the service -Keith would have been most impressed at the wonders of modern technology! I should also like to thank our dear friend Barrie Birkin for playing the organ, as he does for all the happy and sad occasions for the Bates family. My special thanks to go to ‘Tim’ Taylor for keeping the choir going during this last, very difficult year. He interpreted and followed Keith's wishes to the letter and beyond. Warmest regards, Maureen Bates Eunice Budd Remembered (August 2011 edition of the Church Magazine) Eunice died in May aged eighty-six. Millie Guthrie has written this tribute to her.
She supported St Thomas’ in many ways: attending summer fairs, flower mornings, cake sales and was a smiling presence that remembered everyone and asked about family members she had sometimes only met once. She loved the fellowship she and Alf had found at St Thomas’ –it was a large and important part of her life. The friends she had made at church were tremendously important to her, and her to them, all through her long and happy retirement from her nursing career. Millie Guthrie Bernard Moakes Remembered (February 2012 edition of the Church Magazine) Bernard, a longstanding and faithful member of St Thomas’, died in December, aged eighty five. Unfortunately, due to ill health, Bernard had not been able to attend church in recent years. However, I am sure that many of you, like me, have fond memories of Bernard. On behalf of our readers I extend our sympathy to Angela, John and all the family. Mark Hoare, Editor At the service that was held in loving memory and celebration of Bernard’s life this beautiful poem was read. God looked around his garden And found an empty place, He then looked down upon the earth And saw your tired face. He put his arms around you And lifted you to rest. God's garden must be beautiful He always takes the best. He knew that you were suffering He knew you were in pain. He knew that you would never Get well on earth again. He saw the road was getting rough And the hills were hard to climb. So he closed your weary eyelids And whispered, 'Peace be Thine' It broke our hearts to lose you But you didn't go alone, For part of us went with you The day God called you home. Author unknown |
