AFTER many years of altruistic dedication and service to Tavistock, Dick Eberlie is winding down his commitments with the many committees and groups he has been working with.

He served as a much respected elected councillor in West Devon Borough Council and Tavistock Town Council from the 1990s until very recently. He has likewise worked in a multitude of voluntary roles, such as helping to establish Tavistock Foodbank and in securing the establishment of the Crowndale sports fields through the Crowndale Recreation Association.

Dick became chairman of the trustees of Tavistock Museum at the time the council offered the buildings at Court Gate in 2002. He chaired meetings with great wisdom and liaised with councils and the Museum Management Committee to successfully accomplish a series of funding bids which enabled the museum facility to grow into the adjacent building. The process protected and utilised previously redundant heritage buildings in the heart of the town.

Mentioned above are just a few of the community groups who have benefited from his knowledge, insight, experience and determination. Dick has always worked in partnership with other voluntary member and other unsung heroes, who hopefully will be similarly recognised in time.

But for now it is time to say the warmest ‘thank you’ to this much respected but modest man — a people’s champion — for his service in helping to protect and preserve our townscape and develop sustainable facilities for the people of Tavistock to enjoy over many years.

Pat Warne

Former colleague