Brian Calladine April 4, 2026

Dear Laurel & Hardy friends,

It’s with great sadness that I have to inform you that Brian Calladine passed away peacefully at Stoke Hospital on 1st March 2026, aged 86.

Brian was a regular member of our tent for over 25 years and, even before that, he was a member of the Derby Hats Off tent.   I know that many knew him as a kindly, cheerful, thoughtful and a very unassuming fellow with a big laugh.  After I became GS in December 2014, Brian happily took over the role of a sub vice-vizier and became the tent’s treasurer and did a good job.  Whilst at the White Lion he would happily help set up the room before and after each meeting  – though he didn’t have much choice as we used to car share to the meeting!  Being early, he was always able to sit in the cushioned comfy seats at the back of the room at the White Lion.   Brian loved Laurel & Hardy and had a great sense of humour.  He used to work for the East Mids Electricity board as an electrician and had many a funny tale to tell about his wiring ventures.  At one time he was also a scout master.  In retirement he had a lot of different interests including the Chaddesden Historical society, regular reunions with his old mates at the “Leccy board”,  gardening and enjoying time with his rescue dogs.  He also loved to travel with his lovely and beloved wife, Hillary who looked after him.

Sadly, due to a long term illness, he couldn’t make the return to the tent after the Covid break in May 2022.   Hillary actively took care of him until she very unexpectedly passed away in August 2023.  I met him briefly in 2024 and it was quite clear that the loss of his beloved wife had very seriously affected him.  The house was sold and sadly I subsequently lost contact with him but I believe he was looked after by his large family.

We will certainly remember and toast Brian at our next meeting which is on Weds 15th April at the Barge Inn, Long Eaton.

Dave T