Sadly Philip Stewart, who was the verger at St Bartholomew-the-Great passed away in December.
Many walkers might remember him enthusiastically greeting people at the church on the Shakespeare and Dickens walk with a folder of pictures and a huge smile.
He cared deeply about St Bartholomews and was the perfect host for the various film production companies who visited the church. He was a hugely popular figure amongst the congregation.
He was very funny, kind and hugely knowledgeable. I know he felt very privileged to spend the last years of his life as a Brother at Charterhouse where he was invited to lead tours. He was also a very modest and talented pianist and could sometimes be persuaded to play at Christmas.
Always more than happy to meet up for a pint in the Hand and Shears or The Rising Sun next door, Phil became a regular contributor to the London Walks podcast. Adam and myself met up with him to record a Halloween Special and then again on Charterhouse Square itself. The recordings would take no more than a few minutes over a pint as he was so articulate and witty, his charm and enthusiasm shone through.
He was great fun and will be really missed. ***
Here's Phil as featured in the London Walks Podcast…
A London Walk costs £10 – £8 concession. To join a London Walk, simply meet your guide at the designated tube station at the appointed time. Details of all London Walks can be found at www.walks.com.
