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Attended Hymers College:
1948 - 1958
What makes this nominee inspiring?
After leaving school, Tony went to Leicester University and on obtaining his degree, was invited to do research in Economic History. Tony declined this offer, instead opting to establish a new Sales Depot in Chester for, what was then, a very small wholesale fish business in Hull. Having established a customer base in Chester, Tony returned to Hull and procured some traditional smoke houses for the production of quality un-dyed smoked cod & haddock. He served the City well in providing employment over many years, and even when the fish docks closed he trucked in fish from Aberdeen to supply to his customers in Chester and in other parts of the Country, including the London Market. He had a particular skill and commitment to achieving a high standard in the smoking of quality fish, and building a relationship of trust with all his customers.
Tony had played rugby for the School, then played for his University and, also, for the Old Hymerians 1st XV, his height of 6ft 5in making him a force to be reckoned with!
He served the school over many years in his capacity as School Governor, and coached school rugby teams on a voluntary basis for 27 years – first the under 14s and then, for most of his time, the under 16s, considering it a privilege to encourage the boys to develop skills and codes of conduct for both rugby and for life.
The town of Beverley, where he lives, has benefitted greatly by his involvement in the community. He has served the town well in his dynamic commitment to the Church and Christian organisations, claimed by those who know him to have been one of the best Churchwardens at St. Mary’s Church. Through his leadership within St. Mary’s, Tony saw to the construction and full financing of a Parish Hall to the north of the church – a Hall designed to be used by the Community as well as by the church.
Generations of young people have cause to thank him for his 47 years of leadership and influence in the St. Mary’s Church Lads & Church Girls Brigade. Membership, consistently in excess of 100, is open to anyone aged 4 - 21 in and around Beverley. Numerous supervised activities take place, Tony’s particular input being the development of respectful relationships and good citizenship.
As a trustee of the organisation, Tony recently instigated, led, and saw to the finances of a major refurbishment of their 3-storey Headquarters Building, making it fit for the 21st Century.
What stands out about Tony, together with his infectious laughter, is that he takes such a lively and caring interest in any person he meets. A modest man, not seeking celebrity, but a most worthy alumnus who has served his school and the community throughout his adult life in Hull, Beverley and the local area, giving his time voluntarily in the finest way.