WARM late summer sunshine bathed a packed Worcester Cathedral for a celebration of the life of former Mayor of Worcester Coun Andy Roberts.
The devoted Worcester born and bred father and grandfather passed away last month at the age of 74 surrounded by his family and his life was remembered in a service led by the Rev Canon Dr Stephen Edwards, Interim Dean of Worcester.
Roberts Funeral 3
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Conservatives from Worcester such as the city’s MP Robin Walker and from across the county were joined by politicians from across the political spectrum to pay their respects.
Roberts Funeral 7
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County council chairman Coun Kyle Daisley and Mayor of Worcester Coun Louis Stephen formed part of the procession into the Cathedral behind the coffin carried by six pallbearers draped in the flags of both the Fire Service and the County Council, reflecting Coun Roberts long association with both.
Roberts Funeral 6
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Coun Roberts was carried through a guard of honour from county firefighters to their former assistant chief fire officer and was accompanied at the start of his final journey by Worcester’s sword-bearer and Sergeants at Mace.
Roberts Funeral 5
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Following the hymn Guide Me Oh Thou Great Redeemer, a reading from scripture and the poem ‘I’m There’, the packed service heard from Coun Roberts nephew Tim.
“All of us present today have come to pay tribute for having our lives enriched by him,” he told mourners.
In addition to his 37 years with the fire service and 20 years as a councillor, Coun Roberts love of fishing was shared – a passion which began for him as a child and continued as an adult.
The poignant speech reflected on Coun Roberts devotion to his wife Frances, the love he shared with his children Wayne and Victoria and later their respective partners and his granddaughter Kim.
“I can only hope Andy knew how much he was loved by his family and friends and the difference he made to the people of Worcester,” Tim added.
Canon Diane Cooksey, vicar of St Nicholas, Warndon and Area Dean of Worcester, shared a sermon reflecting on the help Coun Roberts had offered throughout his life.
“He was the heart of the people of his community in Warndon Parish and the people of Worcester,” she added.
The devoted community champion was laid to rest in a private family ceremony.
Donations can still be made to Worcester Community Trust at www.justgiving.com/worcestercommunitytrust or Worcester Environment Group at www.theweg.org.uk/shop-and-donate
Donations can also be sent to E J Gumery and Son, 68/70 Ombersley Road, Worcester, WR3 7EU
