Chris Edwards
We are sorry to report that Chris Edwards, a volunteer in the Carriage & Wagon department, sadly passed away over the Christmas period. He had been away from the Railway unwell for some months awaiting a heart operation, and had intended returning once recovered, but we understand died as a result of undiagnosed Amyloidosis.Chris had a wonderfully warm personality, and will be sadly missed by his colleagues on the LCDR/SECR carriage projects, having worked on the SECR 2-plank wagon, "The People's Millions" coach, and subsequently on SECR 5-compartment third No.3188, also making a substantial contribution to the rebuilding of SR platform seats for both Horsted Keynes and East Grinstead stations. The photo shows Chris at the launch of the People's Millions Coach on 26 May 2011.
The funeral was at Holy Trinity Church, Forest Row, on Thursday 16th January 2014 at 1.30pm. No flowers but donations are requested for Amyloidosis Research.
Richard Salmon
Brian Greene
We are sorry to report that Brian Greene, a booking clerk at Sheffield Park, died in hospital on Sunday 1 December. He never fully recovered from the severe stroke he suffered several weeks ago.
Brian was a regular 'early turn' stalwart in the Booking Office every Sunday from the spring through to the late autumn and also did a day a week during the Santa bookings season. He greatly enjoyed his visits to the railway and looked forward to his Sunday lunch in the Bessemer Arms. A gentleman and a scholar, he enjoyed putting the world to rights and debating the issues of the day with his colleagues.
Before joining the Booking Office staff, Brian was a Guard for many years until creaking joints led him to seek out an easier duty. Brian had been a woodwork teacher and earned the respect of the contemporary youth of New Addington, many of whom later valued his efforts to teach them something useful. Outside of teaching, Brian had been involved with the Scouts and was a proficient yachtsman.
His funeral will be held on Wednesday 11th December at 12:45pm at Croydon Crematorium.
Gavin Bennett
General Secretary
Irene Cope
I am sorry to report that Irene Cope, wife of Society vice-president Geoffrey Cope, passed away on Tuesday 3 December.
Although they have not attended our AGM for a couple of years Irene could always be found in the front row, calmly knitting away during the proceedings. There was always much speculation on the top table as to what was being knitted and whether it was a going to be a one or two tea cosy AGM!
Our condolences to Geoffrey and their family.
Gavin Bennett
General Secretary
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