Upminster Pearly King to be remembered with memorial plaque

Arthur Rackley James Pearson-Howes

The good deeds of a Pearly King will be remembered with a new memorial plaque in a spot where he spent hours fundraising.

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Arthur Rackley died last year after more than three decades as the Pearly King of Upminster.

Bob Harris, of the Cran-ham Community Association, Marlborough Gardens, Cranham, and friend of 90-year-old Arthur, believes his memory should be preserved for years to come.

Bob said: “He was a lovely man and he deserves to be recognised for everything he did for this community.

“People considered him as a true gentleman.”

Arthur, of St Albans Avenue, Cranham, was well known for his charity fundraising, standing outside with a collection bucket in hand for hours, with no food or drink, until he reached his target for donations.

More than 70 friends paid tribute to him at his funeral in December at South Essex Crematorium, Ockendon Road, Upminster.

Police from Havering and fellow Pearly Kings and Queens formed a guard of honour before the service.

The Pearly Queen of Crystal Palace, Carole Jolly said: “He was a very dedicated man and a hard worker.

“He raised thousands of pounds over the years and never restricted himself to charities in Havering.

“Whoever needed his help would receive it – he was well known for his handmade magazine racks that he would make for friends.

“He will be missed by all the Pearlies.”

The idea is to place the plaque on a bench where Arthur used to spend a lot of his time collecting money for good causes.

Cllr Linda Van den Hende said: “He collected in all weathers, proudly wearing his Pearly King outfit and his dedication over many years to the three charities he supported was respected by all.

“It is only fitting that Upminster has a permanent reminder to Arthur and his good works.”

The Upminster and Cranham Residents Association has also made donations to the three charities Arthur supported – Saint Francis Hospice, children’s charity Rainbow Trust and Guide Dogs for the Blind.