Tributes have been paid to Carl Roberts, a staunch supporter of Cornwall’s heritage, who died at Penrice Hospital, St Austell on Tuesday, July 25 at the age of 96. 

Announcing his passing on social media, Cathy Woolcock, chief executive officer of Cornwall Heritage Trust said: “Carl was a founder member of Cornwall Heritage Trust; a long-serving trustee; our first Treasurer; Honorary Vice Chairman; Life Member; Member Emeritus; and latterly Honorary Life Vice President. But more importantly, he was our friend.”

A proud St Austell boy, Carl was passionate about local history. His particular interest was in Castle an Dinas, an Iron Age Hillfort owned by Cornwall Heritage Trust; he spent many hours re-laying tracks and doing his best to preserve the precious historic features.

Having served as a trustee into his 80s, Carl continued to participate in events and lit the bonfire at last year’s Platinum Jubilee Beacon Lighting ceremony at Castle an Dinas.

Cathy continued: “Carl enjoyed a merry time with old friends and a glass of sloe gin. We had hoped he would once again cut the cake at our forthcoming 40th anniversary, as he did with such joy at our 30th celebrations, even if he was rather exuberant with the ceremonial sword!”

Tributes poured in as trustees shared stories of their time with Carl. “The overwhelming theme was that he was always so interested in people; so friendly, enthusiastic, full of energy, engaging and generous with his time and knowledge,” said Cathy.

“He was unfailingly courteous and smartly presented; as one of our former trustees commented: ‘Carl was a gentleman in the old-fashioned, best sense of the word.’”

She concluded: “Carl was always supportive and full of ideas for his next project. He was so proud to be a part of the trust … even in recent months he would telephone the office and exclaim “I’m still interested”!

“Our love and thoughts go to Carl’s sons, Nigel and David, and their families. Carl was so proud of his family and overjoyed to become a great-grandfather in recent years. 

“It really is the end of an era for Cornwall Heritage Trust. We are so glad to have such wonderful memories of a very special man. He leaves a huge gap, a great loss to Cornwall and we will miss him very much – a life well lived.”

Carl's funeral will take place at St Austell Parish Church on Monday, August 14 at 2pm.