Revd Ted Appleyard

Revd Ted Appleyard O.B.E.

On Friday October 5th, Great Ayton said its goodbyes to one of its richest residents, not in material terms, but with what is really important – relationships.

The Revd Ted Appleyard had come here as Vicar in 1968, following parishes in the East Riding and a time as a Naval Chaplain. He soon proved himself to be a popular Vicar, especially amongst the youth of the village. Whilst here the vicarage was always bursting with children, for as well as their own children, John, Tim, Wendy and Sally, Ted and Evie fostered well over a hundred others. He had a great capacity for love that was large enough to share beyond his family.

He moved to Middlesbrough for several years before retirement, taking on the role of Chaplain to St Luke’s Hospital as well as Vicar of St Columba’s. He carried his faith in a very natural way, and helped many people.

When he “retired” back to Great Ayton in 1985 he kept up a very full pastoral ministry, helping out in many local parishes, acting as chaplain to various groups, visiting other retired clergy and giving care to those he knew needed it. But it was in everyday contacts that Ted excelled. He always had time for people and had that gift that made everyone feel special.

I came as Vicar in 1993 and Ted became my Honorary Curate. We would pray together and read scripture each day, and then talk about what was going on and exchange news and jokes. Ted’s help was invaluable, his counsel always wise, and his friendship something that I will always treasure. He gave a wonderful example of what God calls us to be as Christians – humble, selfless, self giving and full of joy. Even in illness this was not diminished. I know I was not the only one to benefit, for many people counted him as a friend.

His Funeral Day showed just how many lives he had touched, for many attended an early Requiem Mass before a Church packed to overflowing heard glowing tributes from the President of the Conservative Club, the former Archdeacon of Cleveland, and myself, to a quite remarkable man. He would have loved to have been at his funeral service, but would never have believed it was all for him. You don’t get many priests like Ted. How fortunate we have been to have had him here so long.

Ted, you have given us a good example to follow.

Paul Peverell - Vicar of Great Ayton