Mr. Arthur Burton (right) with one of his parties of visitors on top of the tower.

Many and varied are the ways in which Englishmen choose to spend their Bank Holidays, but for Mr. Arthur Burton, of The Meadway, Hoddesdon, such holidays have, for the past 21 years, meant just one thing – acting as guide and mentor to visitors to Broxbourne Parish Church, and especially to those wishing to view the surrounding countryside from the historic church tower.

August Bank Holiday 1963 was no exception, but for Mr. Burton it marked the end of an era; for he has decided that it is now an appropriate time to write “finis” to his work. Some 75 people took this last opportunity to visit the tower and be guided and informed by Mr. Burton.

During the past 21 years, Mr. Burton has shown some 4,000 people “up the tower,” and by so doing has raised about £200 for various church projects and furnishings.

A member of the Parochical Church Council for a quarter of a century, Mr. Burton, a bachelor, has lived in the district all his life. He has been a sidesman at the church for 25 years, and has worked to support and beautify the church and churchyard over the years. Well known for his artistic talent, Mr Burton has arranged floral displays in the church’s west porch for festivals and many other occasions during the past 21 years.
He is a keen and successful organiser and during past years has been responsible for arranging and stocking stalls at the church Christmas fairs and similar events.
Since his retirement eight years ago, Mr. Burton has undertaken voluntary secreterial work at the London Hospital. Every Tuesday he starts out early for his day at the hospital usually laden with flowers from Hertfordshire gardens.

The Rev. S. J. Glenn was the ninth Vicar of Broxbourne who has served the parish during Mr. Burton’s lifetime and as an old resident recalls many incidents concerning the district, its church and its people. He served on many church committees and is a member of the Men’s Group.
He is a great advocate of walking and cycling for good health, and can often be seen around the district with his faithful dog “Susan.”
He finds his many voluntary interests most rewarding in his retirement; or, as he prefers to put it, “his more even way of life.”