Obituary -- Dick Moore
It came as a huge and heart-wrenching shock to learn that Dick Moore, a local CAMRA stalwart, and real ale connoisseur, had tragically passed away in September. For all those who didn’t know Dick Moore, he was a remarkable human being! Plagued by illness for many years, Dick was never a whinger or winer, but instead used his many array of attributes to maximum effect. I had the honour of knowing him for a decade or so, where I saw first hand how to smile in the face of adversity.
Mr. Moore had an unparallel knowledge of bus, train and tram routes and times around towns and cities throughout the British Isles, and I was lucky enough to see this modest man in action at Sheffield a few years back. His fervour knew no bounds as he took in both real ale and steam locos, with the two being intermingled many times in his past. Alongside fellow real ale enthusiasts Bruce, Giles and Mike, amongst others, he plotted beery exploits around our great country.
Dick’s personal utopia though was a pint of Orkney Dark Island (4.6) at the Guildford Arms in West Register Street, Edinburgh. I will be in Sheffield, South Yorkshire in November, visiting some of the hostelries that we both imbibed in some years ago. A pint or three will be toasted ‘to me old mucker’ Dick Moore, a mild well-mannered man and a thoroughly decent gent.
If it is true that only the good go to heaven, then Mr. Dick Moore will be there right now, raising his glass, seated on the top table!
Alan Sheppard
Story published 10 Oct 2009
