Peter Woodgyer (Widge) 1924 - 2009
Peter Woodgyer, known to friends and family throughout his adult life as Widge, learnt to ring at Cranford shortly after the bells were augmented from three to six in 1943. Widge soon became the de facto Tower Captain, a position he held until a few months before his death. He was a member of the Middlesex County and London Diocesan Guild and was elected a member of the Ancient Society of College Youths in 1952.
Widge’s enthusiasm for ringing and, in particular for teaching young people, will long be remembered. Until restrictions were placed on Friday evening practices at Cranford in the late 1990s, he steadfastly maintained a band for service ringing and, in later years, worked with Harmondsworth and Harlington to ensure that scarce resources were best employed. Throughout the second half of the 20th century, there was always a good supply of experienced ringers to allow a wide range of methods to be rung at Cranford practices, whilst learners were given the benefit of his well-honed teaching skills and his enthusiasm. Widge was not overly interested in peal ringing, but was more concerned to bring learners on and to maintain service ringing. The Cranford welcome was always warm, and Widge’s friendly disposition and smile will be greatly missed. The welcoming atmosphere at practices was enhanced by adjournment at 9pm to the Queen’s Head, where a decent pint was taken and, at one time, handbell ringing attempted.
The traditional Boxing Day ringing at Cranford was a draw for many, with late morning ringing and a glass or two at the Queen’s Head before a late lunch.
Revd Maurice Child, who started the restoration of church and bells in the late 1930s, brought to Cranford the high Anglican form of religion, and formed a body of young men, called the Livery of St Dunstan, to serve at the altar. Widge (a name thought up by Rector Maurice Child) joined the Livery in the early 1940s, and remained an active server until ill health took its toll. He would have been proud of the Requiem Mass in traditional language which preceded his burial in his beloved Cranford churchyard. Widge was a great communicator and kept in touch with many friends and ringers, which was reflected in the large number who attended his funeral and the distances some had travelled to say their last farewell.
Widge is survived by his wife, Joan, whom he married in 1952, his two daughters and three grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by them and by his many friends.
Derek Fowles
