Raymond Fenton 1941 - 2014
This Community Hall is dedicated to the Life of Raymond Fenton – a man of South Cerney.
Raymond epitomised the South Cerney Community Spirit. Raymond’s house was open house to the village. Many organisations used his premises as their base. The monthly village “Cerney News” was, and still is, collated and folded on his dining room table. Concerts were held in his lounge, as were numerous committee meetings and social occasions.
He was an accomplished musician; Organist and Choirmaster at All Hallows, member of Cirencester Operatic Society, a founder member of the Early Music Society and Founder and Musical Director of the village group “Singing for Fun”.
Raymond, a Chartered Accountant, was extremely generous with his professional services. He was a trustee and treasurer of the Cirencester in London Society, but it was not until he died that it was realised how many of the South Cerney groups relied on him as the auditor of their annual accounts, for which he expected no fee.
In more recent years, Raymond led the way in the use of Information Technology, both at work and in leisure. He founded the South Cerney Users Group and at monthly meetings he would give a presentation on the latest development, and then allow members to discuss their computer problems. Raymond extended this to home visits when he would give first class support for no requested reward.
This building will ensure that Raymond Fenton lives on in the hearts and minds of South Cerney residents. If you were lucky enough to know him, we hope that your visit will remind you of fond memories, and if you are a recent arrival may his legacy be that you have a pleasant visit.
Peter Jay - 2017