Stan Wood

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Summary

Based on an interview recorded on 4 December 2009. It reflects the interviewee’s life and memories at that time.

Stan Wood’s story is one of deep roots, hard work, and tireless service to the Fownhope community. Born in 1935 at Yarkhill Court, where his father worked for Major Steadman, Stan left school early for an engineering apprenticeship and later served with distinction in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, choosing to be posted to Libya.

He moved to Fownhope in 1973 with his wife Frida, after a memorable night at the New Inn convinced him this was where he wanted to live. He soon immersed himself in village life, joining the fire brigade, where he served during the legendary summer of 1976, and getting involved in the old village hall, helping to run bingo nights and dances with Frida.

Stan was also a stalwart of the British Legion, proudly serving as standard bearer since 1980 and attending events across Herefordshire, Gloucestershire and beyond. He’s represented Fownhope at numerous parades and funerals, ensuring veterans are honoured with dignity.

His community involvement spans decades: from helping build the new village hall and supporting the village lottery, to serving 12 years as a parish councillor and contributing to the recreation field committee. He was also a founding member of Leisure 5-0 and helped run the much-loved Funday for a decade.

Stan’s working life included stints as an engineer, lorry driver, and driver for Fownhope Motors, a job that brought him out of illness and into renewed purpose. Today, he still helps villagers get to hospital appointments and keeps up his daily walks around the village.

For Stan, being part of a community means getting involved. As he puts it, “You may as well live in the middle of London if you aren’t.” Fownhope is richer for his energy, humour, and enduring sense of civic pride.