Norman Barnes passed away on November 4, 2006.

Many Swanwickers will remember his Tuesday Afternoon Excursion walks with pleasure.

Below we include some memories of Norman.

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From Gillian Shepheard

I have had a note from Monica Barns regarding the death of her father, Norman Barns, longtime member of the Writers' Summer School.

It says:

NORMAN BARNS

Norman died very peacefully last Saturday morning at Treetops, where he lived in Lyme Regis.

He was in his 91st year.

Some people will remember Norman as a science teacher at Axminster School, some as a teacher of German, Italian and Creative Writing, some for his Natural History walks, some as Warden of the Undercliffs for English Nature, some for his love of theatre - either on stage with Colyton Theatre Group or helping out at the Marine Theatre Lyme Regis or the Northcott Exeter.

Many will remember a warm human being who was always willing to share his encyclopaedic knowledge, and who enjoyed nothing better than a friendly chat and a cup of tea.

After a stroke in 2002 Norman lived at Treetops where, despite needing continual care, he remained cheerful and always happy to see his friends."

Norman's funeral took place on 7th November.


From Katy Clarke Swanwick chairman

We are sad to hear of Norman's death. Who can think of the Tuesday walks, without recalling Norman's cheery face, as he gathered up the troops for a well-organised and fun walk?


pic by Roy Devereux

Norman was for so long, such a friend to the Writers' Summer School.

He will be remembered by many of us. For all he did, and in so many ways, for Swanwick.

Our sympathies to his family.

From Chris Gibbs

I was saddened to read that the lovely Norman Barnes has died.

I remember how we'd sit on the lawn at Swanwick - Norman, Gillian Shepheard, Anna Sotto and myself, exchanging little anecdotes with Norman throwing in a pun every now and again - he was a master of puns - such a clever man in many respects.

He organised the walks on Tuesdays for many years where many a life story was mulled over as we trailed through fields and woods in Derbyshire.

Dear Norman - our loss is heaven's gain.

Recent years saw the passing of other Swanwick stalwarts.

We note their passing. here