14/06/2026
📖 Skidmores Story – Part 28: Bill
In the spring of 1980, Bill and Muriel headed to Torquay with Carol, Brian and David for a short family break at their holiday flat.
It should have been a happy few days away together.
Instead, on 4th May 1980, Bill Skidmore died suddenly at the age of just 53.
For his family, life would never quite be the same again.
For many people in Worle, Bill was simply one of those people who always seemed to be there. Whether he was helping organise a charity event, raising money for a good cause, enjoying a drink with friends or spending time with his family, he had a way of bringing people together.
These photographs show the Bill that people remember.
With his family.
Making people laugh.
Enjoying life.
The sort of person who could light up a room simply by walking into it.
Bill was only 53. He was still raising his family, helping run a thriving business and playing a huge part in village life. His loss came as a shock to so many people.
Many wondered what the future would hold for Skidmores without such a familiar face at the heart of the business.
But the family, together with the loyal staff around them, pulled together as they always had.
For Bert, it wasn't just the loss of a business partner. It was the loss of his twin brother. The two had spent their lives side by side, and now it fell to Bert to help guide both the family and the business through an incredibly difficult time.
Bill may have gone far too soon, but his impact on his family, the business and the wider community remained.
And it still does.
💭 If you remember Bill, we'd love to hear your memories of him.
