FAMILY, friends and colleagues turned out to celebrate the life of a man central to Camelford’s heritage, Philip Lessels — a town councillor, local historian and friend to many, writes Rosie Cripps.

On Friday, August 11, the unveiling of a memorial bench to Philip took place in front of the crowd of people that turned out to the event. The bench is situated outside the Now and Then museum in the town centre, and has been described as ‘a fitting tribute’ to a man who was cherished within the community.

Philip, once head teacher of Otterham Primary School, was in his later years a town councillor, and went on to be instrumental to many projects being undertaken in Camelford. A lover of local history, Philip played a huge role in opening the Now and Then museum and tourist information centre last year, after gaining access to the many artefacts and items from the old North Cornwall Museum. He also set up many exhibitions in the town, such as the popular Last Train to Camelford railway exhibiton, showcasing old photographs, diary entries and artefacts from the days of the old North Cornwall railway.

Last November, Philip also organised an exceptional remembrance exhibition held in the Now and Then museum, where people could look at Camelford in the days of the First and Second World Wars, and towards Christmas time, Philip was excited to raise money to purchase a Victorian clock, made by Camelfordian, John Hocken, in the late 19th century. Unfortunately, he was unable to see the project come to fruition, as he passed away after a short illness on April 18, aged 71.

A well-loved man in the community, Philip was previously presented an award as one of Camelford’s honorary citizens. He was also chairman of the Camelford Old Cornwall Society, and Camelford History and Archive Trust — the organisation that is based in the Now and Then museum, along with the tourist information point.

The event on August 11, organised by Camelford Town Council, saw a huge gathering of Philip’s family, friends and colleagues outside the Now and Then museum, where the memorial bench was unveiled by mayor and close friend, Rob Rotchell, and Philip’s wife, Val Hopper.

Philip’s three children were in attendance, as well as his sister, who had travelled from Buckinghamshire for the event.

After the unveiling, everyone was invited into the Old Bank for some refreshments.

Cllr Rotchell, who has known Philip for a number of years, both as a friend and colleague, said the bench had arrived only the day before!

“It arrived yesterday lunchtime. They had four weeks to get it done and ready, but yes, it showed up yesterday — which was a little bit stressful!

“It’s not all finished yet, it’s on a bit of a slope, so we’ll need to re-adjust it and level it out a bit. But it’s in place, and all being well, perhaps after the weekend, we can adjust the bench.”

He continued: “The bench is dedicated to Philip Lessels, who passed away earlier this year. Philip was headteacher of Otterham Primary School, a town councillor, and was also involved in many organisations.

“The location (of the bench and event) was the driving force behind this. As many people will know, Philip was heavily involved in CHAT (Camelford History and Archive Trust) and the opening of the museum last year.”

Cllr Rotchell paid tribute to Philip, adding: “I’ve known Philip for 20 years, when I first came to Camelford. We were neighbours, we joined the town council at the same time — I am now the only one left from that time.

“It’s a fitting memorial to a good friend, councillor and great member of the community.”

Diane Taylor, who worked alongside Philip within the Camelford History and Archive Trust, wrote on the local Facebook page, ‘lovecamelford’: “I would like to thank the council and everyone who came for making the day so special for Philip Lessels’ family and CHAT. The bench is a fitting tribute to a man who loved Camelford.”

Philip’s children, Clemmie, Fergus and Eloise, were all touched by the tributes paid to their father.

Clemmie told the Post: “All the family were touched by the support and number of people who turned out to show their respect. I feel so proud that the town council wanted to have something to remember my dad by.

“In the last four months since he passed away, we have heard nothing but kindness and fondness of my dad. He touched so many people’s lives — we were all truly lucky to have him as our dad. In the last four months, I have learned how many people’s lives he touched, and people only say what a wonderful man he was.”

After the unveiling of the bench, those present went along to the Old Bank, where food and drinks were provided. The town council also presented Val with a memorial DVD of Philip’s moments, along with some flowers.