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Celebration of Richard’s life
Around 70 people attended a service of thankgiving for the life of a man who was dedicated to Bedfordshire.
Richard Hutchins, a former clerk and solicitor to the Harpur Trust and active citizen of Bedfordshire for forty years, died at the age of 97 earlier this year.
A keen outdoorsman Richard played a major role in establishing the Blue Peris Mountain Centre in Snowdonia, which opened in 1975.
A family statement said: “ He was immensely proud of the centre and the fact that thousands of school students from Bedfordshire have enjoyed its outdoor education courses over the last 38 years, and continue to do so.”
In his 13 years at the Harpur Trust from 1966 til 1979, Richard was responsible for overseeing the move of Bedford
Modern School from its town centre site to Manton Lane, and the building of the Harpur Centre.
He also masterminded the preservation of the 1830 Blore façade and the engagement of the leading architect, Sir Frederick Gibberd, to design the Centre.
Sunday’s thanksgiving service took place at Clapham Church Hall and visitors also enjoyed tea and a display about his life and achievements in the Fellowship Hall next door.
Those attending included staff members of the Harpur Trust, friends from the Cycling Campaign North Bedfordshire and the church community, as well as neighbours from Clapham and friends and family from around the country.
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Weather for Bedford
Tuesday 21 May 2013
Today
Light rain
Temperature: 8 C to 14 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: North
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 3 C to 15 C
Wind Speed: 21 mph
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