Jonathan Catton RIP

[GAFC OFFICIAL NEWS]

Just heard the sad news that local historian Jonathan Catton has suddenly passed away. I had the previleage of getting to know Jonathan whilst on work experiience at The Thameside in the late 90s. A lovely chap who was always willing to share his knowledge of the boroughs history with others
RIP Jonathan
m.yourthurrock.com/thurrock-s-mr-history-jonathan-catton-passes-away/story-29658094-detail/story.html

[ForeverBlue]

Very sad news.

When my family moved into our new Ron Billings’ built bungalow at 9 Orsett Heath Crescent, Chadwell St Mary, in December, 1958 (just a few weeks after I saw my first Grays Athletic match), our family doctor, Michael Catton and his family moved into one of new properties which actually backed on to ours. My Mum and Dad became friends with the family and so did I.

Dr Catton was a fine GP and was hugely helpful to me when I contracted meningitis as a 16 year old, causing to me to spend some days in intensive care at Orsett Hospital. It is probably not an exaggeration to say he saved my life.

I lost contact when I moved away from Thurrock for career reasons and never really had any contact with the family after that. I know that Jonathan was very well-respected by all who knew him through his work for the Council.

RIP Jonathan.

[Deleted]

Very sad news. I only met Jonathan twice during my time at the council and his knowledge of the area was unsurpassed. I was enthralled by his description of the tunnels which ran (and presumably still run) under the council buildings in New Road and - by extension - the college across the road.

A genuinely nice gentleman who will be sorely missed.

RIP Jonathan.