Andy Errington-Rennell, funeral director at Pitcher & Le Quesne, is celebrating 30 years with the business.
Following a chance meeting with an old school friend in 1988, he was introduced to Nigel Nerac at Pitcher & Le Quesne. At that point, Andy, who was a former coxswain on a pilot cutter, had not considered becoming a funeral director but, in his words, the job found him.
Andy has seen a lot of change over the years but the fundamentals remain the same – being able to help and guide people through the most difficult times in their lives. He recalled that when he first started, mobile phones were not commonly used so if he was not available to take a call, his wife would hold the fort for him until he got back.
In 30 years, Andy has helped a lot of people to not only plan the arrangements for their loved ones’ funerals but also provided an ear to listen, a shoulder to cry on and sometimes an impartial opinion when there are a lot of people who want to have a say but cannot agree. In addition to understanding and compassion, Andy has also needed a good sense of humour over the years. He commented that: “There is always an Aunty Ethel at L’Etacq and we have to know how to keep her happy!”
Every day is different for Andy and he has to be able to switch from helping people who have lost somebody at the end of a full and happy life, to supporting people through the heartache of losing a new-born. With this in mind, he says: “I take nothing for granted. I live on a day-to-day basis and I appreciate life.”
He has also seen a wide range of approaches to funerals – some see it as an opportunity to grieve and mourn the loss of their loved ones, while others choose to celebrate the life of that person. There is no right or wrong – he and his colleagues are there to support in whatever way they can.
Paul Battrick, Managing Director, Pitcher & Le Quesne said: “I have worked with Andy for 12 years and he is such an integral part of the team. He knows his job so well and is excellent at it. He has the perfect blend of professionalism, kindness, strength and humour – all things that are important in this job. He is highly respected by everyone who works with him and we are delighted that he has been with Pitcher & Le Quesne for 30 years.”
There have also been some funny tales along the way, which have provided some much-needed light relief. He has had to retrieve a rabbit from a grave and has had some slightly unusual requests for funeral processions over the years, such as sidecars, 2CVs, tractors, lorries and even cranes. Andy is proud to have worked for Pitcher & Le Quesne for 30 years and to have served the local community during that time. “We are a very close team and it’s a way of life for all of us. We have an open-door policy and there is always someone on call to ensure that we can be contacted 24/7. It’s certainly not a 9 to 5 job but I wouldn’t have it any other way. In fact, I intend to carry on until the day I drop into a solid oak casket!”
Peter Pitcher, Director & Consultant, Pitcher & Le Quesne said: “Andy is the only permanent member of staff who worked with me for 30 years. His efforts have been invaluable and without Andy there would not be a Pitcher & Le Quesne.”
For further information please contact Paul Battrick MBE, Managing Director at Pitcher & Le Quesne Funeral Directors on Tel: 01534 733330, Mobile: 0779771754 or Email: [email protected]
