Following the investiture of Fred J. Taylor MBE at the Judges' Lodgings in Aylesbury, Fred Buller, who'd enjoyed the relaxed and friendly atmosphere created by the Lord Lieutenant, Sir Aubrey Fletcher and his team, decided that he would also like to receive his MBE in his home County. Awarded for services to Angling Literature in the New Year's Honours' list, Fred is only the third person in the County to receive his medal at the Judges' Lodgings. One reason for choosing that location was that he could invite his family and friends to join the celebrations, something he wouldn't have been able to do had he chosen Buckingham Palace where attendees are restricted to three people.
So on the 17th May, 2010 after weeks of dreary weather, the sun shone warmly and there were many smiling people as the citation was read by Roy Collis DL, followed by Sir Aubrey's amusing congratulatory speech. When Fred J. received his award, Sir Aubrey managed to pin his white glove to Fred's jacket but not this time - he apologised to Fred Buller for removing his gloves first, but he did have a little difficulty pinning on the medal and remarked that Fred's suit was obviously of good quality, to which Fred replied with a wry smile: 'You've noticed!'
The whole event was relaxed and a great pleasure as the charming and recently appointed High Sheriff and other Civil dignitaries mingled with guests who'd travelled from around the country to enjoy the very special occasion with one of angling's greatest ambassadors.
Richard Carr, Managing Director of Bucks TV filmed the ceremony, finally ending with an interview to camera with Fred. Anyone who knows Fred well, will also know that the does not enjoy being filmed but I'm at a loss to know why, because he was an absolute natural and the warmth and dignity of his nature shone even brighter than the sun sparkling on his newly awarded medal.
Anyone wishing to view the proceedings can do so by visiting the Bucks TV website and accessing Sport, where you will also find the Investiture of Fred J. Taylor MBE. Bucks TV have released a DVD of the proceedings which can be obtained by contacting them.
Fred is an outstanding man whose presence and contribution to the world of angling literature forms a cornerstone in angling history. He has been justly recognised for his lifetime's work and the delightful occasion didn't end with the ceremony because Fred's wife Margaret and his daughter Ruth had utilised their organisational skills to the full by creating a wonderful atmosphere in which invited guests enjoyed the celebratory garden party which followed.
Two of the special guests at lunch were the very talented cartoonist, Ted Andrews and his personable partner, Margaret. Ted had produced a watercolour of two fish, Salmo Salar and Esox Lucius - each wearing an MBE and a slightly startled expression! That very amusing painting was passed to each guest for signing as a memento of the occasion and Angling Heritage presented Fred with a framed print (number 11 of 11) - 'See that he changes at Templecombe' (my favourite) drawn by Ted for Recollections I, together with an original drawing by Ted of Fred's favourite fly, the Cascade.
All in all, it was a true 'Red Letter day' for each person privileged to share this great occasion with Fred and Margaret. Keith and I met some lovely people; Kay and her husband; Pat Walker was there with her son Robert; Elain Cressey - Margaret's school friend and a remarkable lady; Margaret's son Martin and daughter-in-law, Cathy and amazingly, the very charming and vibrant Mr. and Mrs. 'J. R. Hartley!' Fascinating. Unfortunately, there were other people I'd have liked to meet, including David Profumo but time flew away and before we knew it, the sun was setting and it was time to head back to our cosy accommodation at The Crown in Little Missenden.
Here, I'd like to say that I'm so glad my husband Keith is an angler and that his mother Sheila corresponded with Fred J. because it was through her that our friendship began and blossomed to include Fred and Margaret. This in turn led to the recording of the first in the Recollections' series and the foundation of Angling Heritage (UK) of which Fred is the Patron. There is no doubt in my mind that angling has some great characters who deserve recognition for the outstanding contribution they make to their sport. Long may we continue to enjoy their company.
Sandy 'Sam' Armishaw
25th May, 2010