On Friday 15th December 2000, Dr Tom Greeves, Chairman of The Dartmoor Society, presented a specially commissioned plate, made by potter Penny Simpson and calligrapher Susanne Haines, to Fred Barlow BEM, in recognition of his lifetime’s work in inspiring young people and safety on Dartmoor.
Dr Tom Greeves said, ‘Fred Barlow is a unique character with a deep personal relationship with Dartmoor, especially the rugged northern area. His inspiration of young people and his dedication to safety when walking on Dartmoor has been outstanding. He is owed a huge debt of gratitude by all those connected with and helped by the Dartmoor Rescue Group which he established, with others, in
1968 at Okehampton. He was Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme Expedition Adviser to British Telecom, and Safety Officer for the Ministry of Defence for the annual Ten Tors walk. Through this award The Dartmoor Society salutes his lifetime of achievements.’
Society Chairman Dr Tom Greeves presented Fred Barlow BEM with his commemorative plate (photo: © Elisabeth Stanbrook)
Fred, who is now 78, is the only remaining founder member of The Dartmoor Rescue Group. He was born in South Zeal and got to know the moor from an early age. Fred still spends time walking the moor, his favourite spot being Fur Tor and he was awarded the British Empire Medal in 1981.
The presentation took place at The Studio, 44a Court Street, Moretonhampstead, the premises of Penny Simpson. As with our two previous awards, Penny made a superb commemorative plate and her skills were again complemented by those of calligrapher Susanne Haines. Penny has been resident on Dartmoor for 16 years and was trained at Dartington Pottery from 1979-81.
