Village farewell to ‘legend’ Peter

Peter was a larger-than-life character,known throughout the Ribble Valley. He went to St Mary’s School in Sabden and St John’s in Padiham and at 15 began work as a labourer in the Sabden cotton mills. When the mills closed he went to Main Morley in Padiham for several years, a short time at Perseverance Mill and then back to Sabden where he worked at both Pendle Furniture (Contrast Upholstery) and engineering company Marbill until a serious leg injury some years ago. He was brought up on the family farm in Sabden, Cobden Farm, and was the sixth of 10 children.

He loved watching cricket, was a season ticket holder at Burnley FC until this season, played bowls with Sabden Bowling Club and for many years was the “mascot” for the Pendle Witch darts team, travelling to every away game, often in fancy dress. He also played dominoes for the pub and if there was an event or party anywhere in the village Peter would be there.

Five years ago he moved into Littlemoor sheltered housing where he was involved in all the activities and enjoyed playing Father Christmas when children from the village schools visited.

Tributes such as “he was a legend”, “a great man”, “there’s only one Peter” have been paid since his death on November 24th following the illness that he fought with typical humour and strength, always happy and full of fun.

After Requiem Mass last Tuesday there was a committal at Burnley Crematorium. He leaves three brothers and four sisters.