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John Lovell: Village's 90-year-old litter-picking 'local hero'




John Lovell worked as a stockman and building warden
John Lovell worked as a stockman and building warden

A DEDICATED Marchwood man who spent much of his time litter picking in the community has died aged 90.

John Harold Lovell was a familiar face around the village for his efforts to keep the area tidy and in 2012 he was recognised as a ‘diamond of the New Forest’ by New Forest District Council as part of celebrations to mark the Queen’s diamond jubilee.

He also received a hero’s award from the parish council in 2016.

A fundraising website set up in his memory to buy a bench and plaque in the village has so far raised £1,490 - far greater than the original £800 target.

Any money left over will go towards buying litter picking sticks, high visibility vests, and bin bag rings for future community litter picking events.

Sue Kerrigan-Harris, who set up the fundraiser, wrote: “A truly great man, who over the years must have collected tons of litter and put a smile on many a face as he stopped to chat. He did just a little thing to keep himself fit in his retirement and it warmed the hearts of the whole community.”

One person who donated wrote: “We will miss seeing him walking around the village in all weather. His selfless contribution to our village is an inspiration to everyone.” Another added: “Such dedication to the village – he was a local hero.”

Born on 22nd October 1930 in Downton, John was the youngest of six children to Charles and Bessie Lovell. After leaving school, John took up work on local farms.

In 1959, the same year he married wife Victoria, he started work on the Paultons Estate as a herdsman. During his 20-year career there he helped expand the dairy unit and became dairy manager. He also involved himself in estate life, including helping organising the annual Bonfire Night event.

In 1979 when the Paultons Estate was sold, John moved to work for farmers in West Wellow before being employed by NFDC in 1985 as the historic buildings warden.

Upon retirement in 1995 John moved to Marchwood. Not one to be idle, he chose to help at the Cat’s Protection charity in Lymington and sold strawberries for several seasons at a local Sunday car boot sale.

Divorcee John is survived by his six children, nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Son Andrew told the A&T: “When at home, never wanting to be sat still, he walked around Marchwood village picking up litter. He made lots of acquaintances on his travels and much enjoyed these regular contacts.

“He was very conscientious about the environment, so having picked up the litter he then separated it for recycling. He often said he was doing this for the grandchildren’s future, trying to protect the environment.”

He added: “Dad was very content with his life, his glass was always half full, and he largely enjoyed good health. He worked hard, kept himself busy and enjoyed his surroundings.”

A socially distanced litter pick is planned to take place in John’s memory in Marchwood on 12th September.



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