WELL known and much-respected Appleton Thorn community champion Keith Brown has sadly died after a valiant fight against the ravages of COVID-19.
Keith, aged 78, was well known throughout Appleton Thorn village and sadly died earlier this month after contracting COVID-19 just prior to discharge from hospital after successful heart surgery at the end of November.
Born on 5th June 1942 to Alfred and May Brown and, as an only child, Keith was much loved by his close family.
He attended St Barnabus C of E Primary School and then Boteler Grammar School. He was passionate about and excelled at swimming, winning numerous trophies. Swimming remained an important part of his life and was how he met his future wife, Judith, also a competitive swimmer. They married in 1969 and lived in Appleton Thorn.
Keith experienced many areas of work, from Policeman to Publicity Design Officer, before he finally settled on his chosen career of teaching in 1970 at Park Road County Primary, Great Sankey. Here his love of all sports continued and he successfully coached the school’s gymnastic team to become Northwest area champions. After finding his love for teaching he returned to Manchester University to gain his Bachelor of Education (Hons) in 1980. Wanting to further his career, he became Deputy Head in the nearby Halton area, progressing to Head Teacher at both Southgate and then Hillview primary schools Runcorn.
In 1990 Keith was awarded the British Empire Medal for his long and devoted services to the Territorial Army, something he was very proud of.
Keith, always an active member within the village, was MC for many events to fund the transformation of the old village school into a thriving Village Hall. Keith remained on the committee for many years, organising film nights and a youth club for the local children. In 1989 the Campaign Against Ruining our Environment was set up against the New Town Development housing plan, and, using his talents and experience in design, co-ordinated the poster campaign.
Keith and Judith over the years have enjoyed many holidays together visiting family in Australia, many cruises and UK breaks.
He had a wide circle of friends, enjoying lunches, Archery, Bowling and Art classes and remained active in neighbourhood development planning.
In 2019 Keith and Judith enjoyed a short break with all of the family together, a rare treat to celebrate 50 years of marriage.
A celebration of Keith’s life will be held at Appleton Thorn Village Hall on Saturday 10th July.
Keith will be sadly missed by his family and friends.
