HTAG Guildford - Russel Chamberlin

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Russel Chamberlin

"All of us who knew Russell will be saddened and diminished by his death on 8 December and our condolences for this sad loss are extended to Linda, Giles and Katherine. Russell had lived amongst us for some 40 years and had made a splendid contribution to not only Guildford, but Holy Trinity Ward and to Charlotteville, where he lived. He was born in Jamaica but came to England at a very early age and was brought up in Norwich. During the war he served on a mine sweeper, one of the most rewarding experiences of his life. After the war he worked as Librarian until his marvelous writing skills and his interest in history, especially that of medieval Italy, enabled him to embark on a career as a full time writer. He had a way with words and an ability to analyse social and political situations which made his books popular and widely read. He wrote 18 books on historical matters, 15 on travel and geography, while having contributed articles and chapters to a host of other books. His books have been translated into French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Polish and Greek. Internationally, his best known book was "The Bad Popes", a beautifully written account of the Papacy during Medieval Times. His books were not only international but he wrote 4 on Guildford and took a keen interest in Guildford, its history and its future. He was the first Chairman of HTAG, played a key part in reviving the Guildford Institute and, more recently, in helping to preserve "The Spike" in Charlotteville. He was awarded an Honorary Degree by Surrey University. He had a warm friendly personality and a deeply enquiring mind and he will be a sad loss to the community and all of us who knew him." Russell's funeral is at 14.30 on Wednesday, 20 Dec at the Guildford Crematorium. You are invited to tea afterwards at the Guildford Institute. No flowers, please, but donations to the Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice, Waverley Lane, FARNHAM, GU9 8BL. If you say you are a taxpayer and you are sending a Gift Aid donation the hospice can claim the tax back.