31 October 2014

Please note: this news article is in our archive. Articles were correct at time of publication, but should not be relied on for accuracy after the passage of time.

PAUL Johnson is the new chairman of the Disablity Access group following the recent death of Eric Mackie.

In announcing his acceptance of the role, Paul paid warm tribute to Eric, saying that the prospect of following in his footsteps was a “daunting” one.

“No doubt Eric’s sudden passing was as much a shock for you as it was for me,” he wrote in a letter to group members. “We have lost such a great man who tirelessly worked for the good of those he was seeking to serve. The attendance of his Celebration of Life Service at St John’s in Dormansland on the 15 October was true testament of the high regard in which he was held by so many. He will not be forgotten.

“I am sure that many of you have already passed on condolences and tributes to Ann and members of his family and it is the task of the committee to see that his hard work is progressed into the future as our memorial to his name and his achievements.

“I have the dubious honour, because it is daunting in prospect, of having taken the helm in Disability Access (East Grinstead Area) following endorsement by the Executive Members.

“Most of you will be aware that I have assumed a fairly active role in the Group’s activities and have served on the committee for some years. During that time I have been involved with Eric on the various tasks embarked upon. I am committed to maintaining his tenacity in pressing for solutions or easements, particularly on issues such as the lack of access to Platform One at the station and the pressure for better toilet facilities at the top of town.

“I would like to commend all the Executive Members for their hard work in support of Eric and the group, especially those involved with the hire of mobility equipment. I will naturally rely heavily on their expertise and experience as I endeavour to steer the group forward. In doing so I ask that you feel free to express your views to me at any time especially if you think that there is another avenue that we might pursue for the common good of all.

“I would like to keep that sense of welcome on our door.”