R.I.P Derek Norrish

From Martin Clough, Tower Secretary of Silverton

We are sad to announce the death of Derek at his home in Cullompton on Friday 5th March.  Derek, who was in his mid-eighties, had been a keen ringer (preferring Call Changes) for many years.  Before joining the Silverton band, he had been Tower Captain at Bickleigh for many years and frequently rang at other towers including Pinhoe and Thorverton. Derek enjoyed his ringing and would be the first to volunteer if needed for extra duties, weddings and special occasions.   It was not uncommon, before coronavirus restrictions, for Derek to ring at three towers on a Sunday morning (after having listened to the ringing on the radio at 06:00!). Derek was a likeable “one of a kind” character who will be greatly missed in the tower and branch activities.  He would often regale anyone willing to listen to anecdotes relating his previous working life as an agricultural contractor (as a result he knew the Mid Devon farming community well) and his views on keeping fit and healthy.  He was also an enthusiastic bowls player. Derek leaves behind his partner Brenda to whom we extend our sincere condolences.  Her address should you wish to contact her is; Brenda Lancaster, Lea Lodge, Old Tiverton Road, Cullompton, EX15 1LW  

At the time of writing no details are available about Derek’s funeral.