TRIBUTES have been pouring in for a former St John Ambulance worker who has died aged 90.
A dedicated husband and father, Tom Hurst, of Lansdowne Road, Walthamstow, joined St John Ambulance in 1928. At the outbreak of World War II Mr Hurst took charge of the first aid post in Wood Street.
It was during the war that he met his wife, Margaret. They were married in 1944.
In 1956 Mr Hurst joined the air attendant's section of the organisation, flying abroad to escort the sick and injured back to the UK. His tremendous acts of kindness were recognised in 1959, when he was admitted to the Order of St John, and in 1991 he was promoted to commander of the Walthamstow division.
The Walthamstow Physically Handicapped Club approached Mr Hurst in 1961 to ask if he could assist with transport for club members. He not only arranged transport but organised helpers to assist at club meetings and accompany people with disabilities on day trips and holidays.
The club was so impressed by Mr Hurst's efforts it elected him president in 1969.
His funeral was held at St Barnabas' Church in Walthamstow, where the Rev Anthony Crouchman described Mr Hurst's life as one of "service and dedication to others".
He said: "If you had a problem he was the first person you would turn to for help and guidance."
Mr Hurst's daughter, Janet, said: "My dad will be greatly missed. He was a great man who liked giving his time to people. He was thoroughly committed to doing good for others."
Mr Hurst leaves two other children, Gillian and Angus.
July 17, 2002 14:30
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