Obituary: Paul Starkey

Paul Starkey – R.I.P. 6th November 2022

Chairman of the Billingshurst Show, Paul Starkey will also be fondly remembered by the Billingshurst Rotary Club and Scouts & Guides

Paul Starkey was involved with Scouts & Guides for over 20 years. He joined the Fundraising Committee then, with both of his children in the group, he joined the Group Executive Committee too. Paul’s talent for creative design was gratefully received and he was soon involved in many events.

When the Billingshurst Rotary Club become involved in the organisation of The Billingshurst Show in 2001 representation was needed from the Guides & Scouts and Paul stepped up. He was asked to put together the show programme which went from strength to strength with Paul producing the programme, posters and website. Paul’s talent made it all look extremely professional.

In time Paul stepped up again to become Chair and guided the show in a firm but fair manner; he was professional, listened to everyone and always had the best interests of the show at heart. He was always on the lookout for the right attractions to keep people entertained. 2019 was a huge success; we had our best show ever and made over £10,000. It was a real a team effort with Paul leading the way. The Red Arrows and the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s Lancaster flypast started the show – a real highlight for everyone. Post-COVID the show returned in 2022 and thanks to Zoom, Paul was still leading the way despite his failing health. He welcomed people within the committee, sharing out jobs that he had previously done. It was a massive community event with a Hurricane flypast and set the tone for the future of the show about which he was so passionate. Aside from the show, Paul used his talent to produce the Christmas Post stamps and cards for the Guides & Scouts. The young people all design the stamps and the best six are produced to sell to the community for delivery of their Christmas cards around the village.

Paul was a hardworking, quiet and pleasant person which hid a will to make the show a success. He was a pivotal part of our community. It was a privilege to work with him and experience the inspiration and leadership he gave, growing the show over the years and leaving us such a legacy. He will be missed.

Thank You Paul; Rest in Peace. Natalie Evans

Photo: steam trains were just one of Paul’s many interests

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