Chertsey Says Farewell to Local Fireman John Toes

The funeral was held recently of local Chertsey fireman, John Toes at the town’s Parish Church, St Peter’s.

The funeral was arranged by Lodge Brothers from its branch in Windsor Street, and District Manager Richard Leachman led the long funeral cortege to the church door. In addition to a ten-strong Fire Drill Section and standard-bearers and a guard of honour of some two dozen firemen, the cortege included a vintage fire engine and four more engines from local stations.

The church itself was standing-room only with some 300 family and friends paying their respects.

Mr Leachman said: “It must have been such a comfort to the family to know how loved and respected John was. The cortege looked amazing and although that part of the town was brought to a standstill for a few short minutes, I am sure the good people of Chertsey didn’t mind, as it meant saying goodbye to one of their own in such a glorious way!”