Newark entertainer who fought for others dies aged 84
A man who was recognised for his union work and as a keen drummer has died, aged 84.
Ivor Noel Townsend, of Newark, was born on Christmas Day 1937, the youngest of six children.
As a young man he was a drummer in the Newark Cameronian Carnival band, along with Sonja Sunman, who would later become his wife and lifelong partner.
At 15, he started work at Worthington Simpson, where he became a union representative — fighting for compensation for injury in the workplace, and a fair deal for all employees.
He was awarded the British Empire Medal in 1990 in recognition of his contribution to the Amalgamated Union of Engineering Workers.
He spent almost his whole working life at Worthington Simpson until he retired, aged 65.
Ivor honed his drumming skills in military bands during two years of national service from 1957 to 1959, and later in life was the drummer for 3 Ts With Sugar, entertaining many across the Newark area in the late Seventies and Eighties.
He was also a keen bowler and dancer.
He played at Simpsons’ bowls club for many years and was a member and helper at Balderton Dance Club.
Together with Sonja, they raised thousands of pounds for charity through their open garden days and charity events.
He was married to Sonja for 62 years and they had four daughters, Julia, Hazel, Helen and Pamela.
He was much loved by his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
