21 Mar

Death of prominent Bridgwater Historian

Dr Peter Cattermole who has died this week, pictured receiving the Bridgwater Cup from Ken & Margo Richards.
Dr Peter Cattermole who has died this week, pictured receiving the Bridgwater Cup from Ken & Margo Richards.

Leading light in the Bridgwater Heritage Group, Dr Peter Cattermole, passed away on 16th March  Dr Cattermole had been involved with the Blake Museum, The Bridgwater Civic Society and was a regular contributor on planning issues .He also had connections with West Somerset Railway Museum. He was also significantly helpful to the  Town Council across a whole range of aspects – not least IT matters and the Museum.

He was Head of Science at the prestigious Winchester College before he retired to live in Friarn street in the Westover ward.

Tributes have poured in.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Bridgwater Steve and Stella Austen said “Truly sad news – he will be sadly missed by a lot of organisations in our town. His insight and energy was something to behold.”

Dr Cattermole pictured recently helping to preserve a 19th century Banner with Cllr Smedley & Dave Chapple, Chairman of the Civic Society.
Dr Cattermole pictured recently helping to preserve a 19th century Banner with Cllr Smedley & Dave Chapple, Chairman of the Civic Society.

Westover Councillor Brian Smedley said “Dr Cattermole constantly provided us with detailed information on challenging planning decisions, was a passionate defender of the town’s heritage and was a permanent  thorn in the side of Sedgemoor District Council, who, it’s fair to say, he wasn’t very impressed with.”

Westover Councillor Kathy Pearce said “It’s a great sadness to lose someone so passionate about the town’s heritage. He will be missed.”

Wyndham Councillor Gill Slocombe said “A great loss to Bridgwater, so sad.I thought he was such an interesting character, always so full of amazing bits of wonderful knowledge. I loved his voice and could listen to him for hours”

Fairfax Councillor Pat Morley said “That is so sad, he really was a very special person.”

Eastover Town Councillor Bill Monteith said “Sad news. The Town has lost a valuable guardian. His diligence and attention to detail has undoubtedly saved many historic features within our Town. He will be missed.”