Cyclist's death is a 'huge loss' to union's cause

Trusted article source icon
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Profile image for West Briton

West Briton

FAMILY, friends and colleagues have paid tribute to a Camborne union secretary who fought tirelessly for a better pension deal for health workers.

Cyclist Paul Kemsley died following a crash on the eastbound carriageway of the A30 between Hayle and Tolvaddon on Friday morning.

It is thought the clinical imaging professional, who worked in the X-ray department at the Royal Cornwall Hospital at Truro, was in collision with a Daihatsu van, registered to Camborne, as he rode along the carriageway.

He died at the hospital of serious head and chest injuries on Sunday afternoon.

FREE Organic Lip Gloss. Treat your lips to some organic goodness...

Neal's Yard Remedies Organic Health & Beauty - Kate Wilson

View details

Print voucher

Please go to www.uk.nyrorganic.com/shop/katewilson and browse my online shop for some fantastic award winning products. If you need any advise please email katewilsonnyr@sky.com or call 07717838577

Terms: Available whilst stocks last so get in quick! a randomly chosen colour will be sent with your order

Contact: 01579 550453

Valid until: Friday, May 31 2013

A statement from his family said: "Paul was a beloved husband, devoted dad and grandad. He will be sadly missed by all."

Mr Kemsley, 54, of The Glebe and an active member of Unison, stood with a placard at the hospital entrance alongside colleagues in protest over reductions to public sector pensions in November last year.

His sudden death has shocked his community and colleagues.

Cornwall councillor Dave Biggs (Camborne West) recently discussed the NHS and council proposals for support services with him and said: "I'm stunned and deeply saddened. The community has lost a generous and warm man who worked hard for others."

Hospital staff described Mr Kemsley as a brilliant colleague who worked tirelessly to improve patient care and staff working conditions as a Unison representative.

Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust (RCHT) chief executive Lezli Boswell, and chairman Martin Watts, said in a statement: "He will be a huge loss to the organisation."

Local Unison spokesman Stuart Roden said: "He touched many lives ... always cheerful and positive, nothing was too much trouble. He was an excellent advocate and campaigned tirelessly on behalf of Unison members. He will be sorely missed by his many friends and colleagues."

Messages of condolence, personal recollections and memories have flooded in to the local union branch.

One member wrote: "Paul had a well-earned reputation for fairness and good sense. More than this though, he was friendly, fun and always 100 per cent enthusiastic and full of energy."

Chris Dayus, Unison regional organiser, added: "Paul was totally dedicated to supporting his colleagues at RCHT. He was respected by everyone and he will be missed terribly by everyone who knew him."

Police want to hear from anyone with any information about the accident on 101 quoting log 179.

0
Tweet this article
Report

Your comments awaiting moderation

Be the first to comment

max 4000 characters
 
 
 
 
 
 

Tell us about your area

Got some interesting news? Write about it and let your whole community know.

  Write an article