It is with enormous sadness that the BDC has to announce the passing of one of its best-loved Members – former Club Secretary Barbara Fell. She was 93.
Barbara, nee Gunstone, was a reassuring constant in the Club’s life for more than 70 years, as both Club employee and Member, and although she preferred to assume a typically modest low profile her influence and presence were unquestionable.
Barbara joined the BDC in November 1951 as assistant secretary to Darell Berthon before eventually assuming the roles of Club and Company Secretary. She officially retired after exactly 40 years’ dedicated service in November 1991, although willingly stayed on for a further five years in a part-time supporting capacity.
Barbara was later invited to join the Club’s Main Committee, her inexhaustible knowledge of Club affairs and Members proving invaluable during her 10-year tenure. During her overall 60 years’ service with the BDC, Barbara worked alongside five Presidents and 13 Chairmen.
To acknowledge her loyalty to the Club, Barbara was granted Honorary membership, and enjoyed more than 38 years ‘on the other side of the fence’ as an Eastern Region Member. The Club also honoured Barbara’s Diamond Jubilee in 2011 with a special celebration dinner.
President Andrew Day commented: “Everyone connected with the BDC will be hugely upset to hear of Barbara’s sad passing. She played an extremely influential part in Club life over many decades, and was much loved and respected by all with whom she came into contact. She will be enormously missed but her memory and legacy will live on.”
Our image shows Barbara being presented with a bouquet, to mark her diamond jubilee, by then President Andrew Day at the 2012 Club AGM. Chairman Mike Warner watches on