Ken Luxon, a charity worker and storytelling tour guide known for his roles in Bath and Bristol, has passed away. Born in Hammersmith, London, Luxon’s early interest in performing began with church and school productions and amateur dramatics. This evolved into a passion for storytelling, which he incorporated into his work as a tour guide. He entertained visitors on tour buses in Bath with tales of Regency life, portrayed Isambard Kingdom Brunel aboard the SS Great Britain in Bristol, and led historical expeditions to locations such as bomb shelters and John Wesley’s New Room.

Luxon’s career was marked by his commitment to community service. He initially worked with homeless individuals and later joined the Ravenswood Foundation, a charity supporting people with learning difficulties. He also served as a lay preacher within the Methodist Circuits, frequently leading services and storytelling sessions. From 2021, Luxon was employed as a technology adviser and activities facilitator for Alive, a charity assisting older people with digital skills. He is survived by his wife Pearl, their two daughters, his father Alec, and sisters.

Erika Brooke, a postwar refugee from Czechoslovakia, also died recently. Born in Rudolfov, Brooke experienced the hardships of wartime occupation, including physical abuse due to hiding during the conflict. After being relocated to rural areas by her family, she later joined relatives in the United Kingdom in 1946. Initially assisting in lodgings and working as a cook, Brooke went on to build a career as a seamstress, ultimately supervising the sewing room at Poole General Hospital before retiring. She married Ronald Brooke, with whom she had two daughters, and continued to work after their divorce. Although expected to stay in Britain briefly, she developed a lasting affection for the country. She is survived by her daughters and grandchildren.

Steve Lismore, who died in a climbing accident in Italy at age 71, had a long career as a civil servant and local politician focused on improving opportunities for children and fostering employment equality. Originally from Toronto, Canada, Lismore excelled academically and combined this with practical skills and a love of adventure. He moved to the UK permanently in 1978 for further education and married Jenie Thompson in 1982. His professional work included roles in community development charities and a senior advisory position at the Department for Work & Pensions, where he led the team responsible for the 2024 Buckland review on autism employment. Lismore also served as a dedicated school governor and Labour councillor, including a cabinet role for health and wellbeing at Chesterfield Council. He is survived by his former wife, children, grandchildren, and sisters.