Chris Kettle - In the Spotlight (From Bridgwater Mercury)

Chris Kettle - In the Spotlight

11:48am Tuesday 6th January 2009 in

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Chris Kettle was born in 1937 in Dublin where he grew up with his family and went to school.

In 1956, he met Nancy from Bridgwater, who was in the city catching up with family and friends. A year later he visited her in the Bridgwater and fell in love with the place.

The couple married in 1958 in St Joseph's Church, Bridgwater, and have lived here ever since.

Chris became heavily involved in Bridgwater life. He worked on the Cellophane site for 40 years - apart from a two-year break for national service - and threw himself into clubs and societies.

Bridgwater Amateur Operatic Society and Bridgwater Pantomime Society enjoyed around 30 years of his help as he served as chairman, on the committee and front of house.

He was also chairman and on the committee for the rugby team Bridgwater and Albion and is secretary of the Friends of Bridgwater and Albion.

Chris has also volunteered at the Citizens Advice Bureau for eight years.

After living in Bridgwater for more than 50 years, Chris still loves it in the town and surrounds himself with lots of friends and family.

What is the best and worst thing about the place you live in? “I like Bridgwater people and its history and traditions including Carnival. It is a shame that over the years all the essential shops and businesses have disappeared meaning people have to move out of the town.”

What is the best and worst thing about your job? “I am retired now but I worked for 40 years at the old Cellophane site. I did enjoy it.”

What was your ambition as a child? “I suppose I wanted to travel and always had an interest in archaeology but never got actively involved in it.”

What has been your greatest achievement? “I've had a number. I was a magistrate for 15 years, serving on the Sedgemoor bench is something I am proud of.”

What characteristic you dislike most in others and in yourself? “I like people to be on time. In myself I get terribly enthusiastic about anything I get involved in but it can lead to impatience.”

What is your biggest fear? “If I can avoid climbing up a ladder I will. I am scared of heights to some extent.”

When and where were you happiest? “I'm happy now where I am. I couldn't imagine living anywhere other than Bridgwater. I have a large circle of friends and family here.”

What three items would you take to a desert island? “A basic tool kit, the works of Charles Dickens and a solar-powered radio.”

Who are your dream dinner party guests (maximum five)? “John Humphrys, Tony Robinson, Julie Walters, Michael Parkinson and Dawn French.”

How would you like to be remembered? “As someone who tried to improve whatever he was involved with and help others where possible.”