Brian and Ursula Kirby, a devoted couple who spent decades volunteering for the National Trust and running a historic watermill, have died within two months of each other at the ages of 89 and 92 respectively. Their first meeting occurred in 1959 at London's Royal Festival Hall, where they both attended a Count Basie Orchestra concert. They married the following year, embarking on a life dedicated to preserving Britain's heritage.
Early Life and Meeting
Brian Kirby was born in Blackheath, southeast London, as the only child of Fred Kirby, an estate agent, and Margret (nee Mackenzie). After completing school, he volunteered for national service and spent three years in the RAF based in Hull before returning to London. Ursula was born in Bolton, the youngest child of Ursula (nee Silk), a pianist who accompanied silent films, and Ephron Williams, a piano teacher. Both parents died before she turned 11, and she was raised by her older brothers and Aunt Dolly. She attended Mount St Joseph's school in Bolton before moving to London to work at Colgate-Palmolive.
Life with the National Trust
From 1967, when Brian began working for the National Trust in the Lake District, the couple lived in and cared for historic properties across Britain. They resided in Hooper's Cottage, once owned by Beatrix Potter. Brian's role included selecting Potter's original artwork for display at Hill Top. An accomplished painter himself, his works adorned every wall of their home.
The Kirbys led a sociable life, especially during Brian's tenure as property manager at Trerice, an Elizabethan manor house in Cornwall from 1987. They hosted lawn-mower rallies, theatre groups, and even a film production of Twelfth Night directed by Trevor Nunn.
Retirement and Clyston Mill
In 2000, upon retirement, the Kirbys moved to Clyston Mill, a National Trust watermill in Broadclyst near Exeter. Within two years, they learned to operate the mill and ran it as volunteers, producing award-winning flour for 18 years until its closure in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Political Activism and Volunteering
Passionate about politics, the Kirbys were longtime Guardian readers, marched with CND, and attended the Tolpuddle Martyrs festival with their daughter Emma. They also volunteered at Oxfam shops, first in Blackheath and later in Exeter, for 26 years. They were devoted to their cat, Jonny.
Brian and Ursula are survived by their daughter Emma, the author's wife. Their legacy of dedication to heritage and community will be remembered.
