Malling.org.uk Derek Brimsted 1938 -2011
MORE than 200 people packed a standing room only service at St Mary’s Church to say goodbye to Derek Brimsted.
The Rev David Green and friend Norman Coppock led the tributes.
Those attending were told: “Your presence here today shows more than anything else the respect and love with which Derek is regarded here in West Malling where he was born and bred.”
Born in 1938, one of five children, he was a bit of a cheeky child, and played hookey from school, hiding out in the churchyard. When he was 21, a 16 year-old-girl cycling down the High Street attracted his attention. He stopped her, asked her out and Veronica and Derek were married five years later, and moved into Offham Road where they lived ever since.
Derek’s interests lay in practical hands-on and specially sporty things.
He supported Manchester United, and Maidstone United but his chief joy was playing for Town Malling Football Club for over forty years. Knee problems forced him to give up, and run two Maidstone Marathons, play badminton and then bowls instead! Supporting son-in-law, Chris, and grandson, Joe, as players at Town Malling Cricket Club, Derek would sit soaking up the sun on the boundary edge, holding court with anyone he could find to talk to.
The surety of Derek and Veronica’s love for one another, for their daughters and then their family were all important. They knew how vital it was to have a family and a home they could believe in and what it means to be a team person in life. They were passionate about West Malling and, during the 70s, helped to organise many fund raising events to build the village hall. They served on the management committee for over 30
years, spending many unpaid hours ensuring that it was in a pristine condition for everyone to use. Derek was the life and soul of any carnival or party and the New Years Eve buffet dances he and Von held were legendary, at least one resident returning home in a supermarket trolley!
What his life shows most of all is that he cared, that he wanted to see those who came after him develop into all that they could be. We must hold our memories of Derek’s life close to us, all that was good in him as a husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, uncle, neighbour, team-mate, even a frustrated coach, and of course a true and loyal friend. “
Autumn Fair Crafts & more!
Saturday 19th November. From: 10am to 2pm.
Come along to see, buy or try!!
Pamper treatments, various items for sale and.. a variety of crafts, all created by local people – you’re bound to find something for all the family!
Cards – hand sewn items – paintings – ceramics – knitted gifts – wood turning - jewellery – bags – quilted projects – pamper treatments & more! All are very unique & quality items!
AT: The St. James Centre ‘Community Hub’.
Chapman Way. East Malling. ME19 6SD
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