Moyra Cross

Moyra Cross

Like a large number of people in and around Swanage, it was very sad to learn of the recent death of Moyra Cross at the age of 92. It was my good fortune to work with her on the Committee of the Society, eventually succeeding her as Chairman. She led the Society through one of its periodic difficult times, reviving its fortunes, so that when I became Chairman in 2007 it was thriving again.

Moyra was one of those people with an indomitable spirit, a powerful lady of considerable intellect and someone who I am privileged to have called a friend – the loss of whom will be keenly felt both within the Society and outside in the wider Purbeck community.

Her death also breaks another link with the pioneering days of the Swanage Railway. After their retirement, she with her husband Roland (Roger) retired to Swanage in 1969. When in January 1972, the Swanage branchline closed, she and her husband joined the campaign to save the line, and then they worked for its re-establishment as the present day Swanage Railway. For many years with the Railway re-established, she volunteered in the Station Shop working several days a week.

Some may have been put off by her no nonsense demeanour but she always had time for one and her enthusiasm for the Society and the justness of its campaigns to keep Purbeck special always drew her full support. From time to time, after she retired from the Committee, I sought her advice about the Society, which was always freely given. On a personal note, therefore, I will greatly miss her.

Mike Stollery
December 2014