New bench in memory of respected Dunbar doctor

Members of the town’s Rotary Club, medical centre and other community groups have opened the seating beside the town’s lifeboat station in memory of Dr Tom Badger who died, aged 59, in 2010.

Dr Badger, who came to the town with his wife Wendy in 1978, was the official doctor for the lifeboat crew for more than 25 years.

He was also an active participant in several organisations, including the sea cadets, Dunbar Grammar School board, Round Table and Rotary.

He was instrumental in developing the two medical centres constructed in the town centre since 1986 and was a well-respected member of the town’s wider community.

Funding for the bench was provided mainly from East Lothian Council’s Civic Pride Fund, with other contributions from the Rotary Club, RNLI and Dunbar Shore and Harbour Neighbourhood Group (DSHNG).

Project managers Dunbar Harbour Trust commissioned the memorial bench by appointing architect and DSHNG chairwoman Pippa Swan to design the seating.

Her ideas have been turned into reality by stonemason Jason Hoffman, of Stone Inspired, with a carved inscription by Gardner Molloy and all groundworks by local firm A G Thomson.

Dunbar Rotary, of which Dr Badger was president on two occasions, has also provided a plaque incorporated into the design to mark its 50th anniversary.

After introductions from Dunbar Harbour Trust’s Robin Hamilton, the Rev Laurence Twaddle recalled Dr Badger’s immense contribution to the Dunbar and Spott communities.

Dr Badger’s eldest son, Matthew, then gave an emotional speech thanking all who had attended the dedication and those who had been involved in its creation.

Mr Hamilton said: “Reaction to the project from the public and from harbour users has been very favourable.

“The bench will be a real asset to the vicinity, where locals and visitors alike will be able to rest and enjoy great views over the harbour.

“It is also a fitting tribute to Tom by the community which he so ably served for so many years.”