Daughter pays tribute to late father

Former Worthing Golf Club captain Brian Thorpe died aged 85

Brian Thorpe, died peacefully in his sleep, aged 85. He left behind his wife Ann, 81, three daughters and eight grandchildren.

Brian’s daughter, Rosemary Thorpe, 58, from Wimbledon, said: “He was a wonderful guide as a father. He gave great advice and was very family orientated. He was an extremely adoring grandfather and was very proud of his grandchildren.

“He was a very special man.”

Brian lived in First Avenue, Worthing, for 51 years, before he and Ann moved into a residential home in Winchester in October.

In 1987, Brian was appointed a CBE for his contribution to the water industry, including roles as executive board member of the International Water Supply Association and chairman of the Foundation for the Transfer of Knowledge. He spent 14 years as the chief executive of Southern Water, before he was appointed deputy chairman of the board in 1982.

During retirement, Brian was Worthing Golf Club’s club captain in 1991 to 1992, and was president from 2000 to 2004.

Brian was born in Brighouse, Yorkshire, and grew up in Rastick. He was the only son of Robert and Florrie and, according to Rosemary, never forgot his Yorkshire roots.