Hugh Bidwell facts for kids
Sir Hugh Charles Philip Bidwell (born November 1, 1934 – died December 7, 2013) was an important British businessman. He held a very special role as the 662nd Lord Mayor of London from 1989 to 1990.
Before becoming Lord Mayor, Sir Hugh was an alderman for the Billingsgate area from 1979 to 1996. An alderman is like a senior council member in the City of London. He also served as a sheriff of the City of London in 1986. Sheriffs are ancient officers who help the Lord Mayor. When he became Lord Mayor, he was given a high honor called a Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire (GBE).
Early Life and Education
Hugh Bidwell was born in 1934. His father worked as a wine importer. Hugh went to school at Stonyhurst College.
Military Service
In 1953, Hugh Bidwell did his National Service. This was a time when young men in Britain had to serve in the armed forces. He joined the East Surrey Regiment. He served in places like Nyasaland (which is now Malawi) and Kenya. He was part of the 1st Battalion King's African Rifles.
Business Career
Sir Hugh Bidwell started his career in the food industry. He first worked for Viota, a company that made breakfast cereals. By 1962, he became a director at Viota.
Later, he became the chairman of another food company called Pearce Duff. He also led the food division of Gill & Duffus. In 1985, he joined a large company called Allied Lyons.
Family Life
Sir Hugh Bidwell was married two times. His first wife was Jenifer Webb, whom he married in 1962. They had two sons and one daughter together. Jenifer passed away in 2001.
Later, Sir Hugh married Priscilla Pode. She was born with the last name Hunter. When Sir Hugh passed away, his wife and his three children were still alive.
Final Resting Place
Sir Hugh Bidwell was buried next to his first wife, Jenifer. Their graves are in the cemetery of Holy Cross Church. This church is located in Goodnestone, Kent.
