Tony Gummett had been a regular correspondent of HMSOldies, and we were sad to read the email – copied below – from his son Antony, telling us that his father had died on 2 October 2022.
He was born on 22 June 1927, and joined HMSO in February 1944. He retired from HMSO Britannia House, where he worked as Principal, Supply Division to Seven Kings, Ilford, a couple of miles from where he was born in Chadwell Heath.
Antony wrote of his father as follows:
‘I am very sorry to let you know that my Dad, Tony Gummett, died on the 2nd October at the age of 95. He had mentioned both to me and my sisters that after he passed to let you know – he would always read the updates from HMSOldies.
Dad was always very proud of working for the HMSO, and enjoyed working in the various locations in London, a five-year stint in Cardiff and Bristol, along with his regular working visits to Norwich, Edinburgh and Belfast. All the way through his retirement to his final years, he would tell us many stories of his time with HMSO.
Dad was very lucky to have a very long and fulfilling retirement (he retired in 1987). He was very active all the way through to his early 90s, only slowing down when the pandemic restricted him. He happily got to see all his Grandchildren grow to Adulthood.
We found this old photo of Dad at his desk, we think it is at Atlantic House.
Very sorry not to be contacting you under happier circumstances and all best wishes.
Antony Gummett’
Dear Antony, How sad to read your note regarding your late father. I had been wondering, as he is usually one of the first to respond to HMSOldies updates.
I worked with him indirectly for many years, being fortunate to take over the room he had occupied in Britannia House, Borough High Road, upon his retirement. He was always helpful, considerate and reliable.
The photo you sent certainly looks like Atlantic House. The manual typewriter under the cover, the ashtray, the lack of any new technology apart from a landline telephone – happy days!
Your father would often attend the December reunions we used to hold in The Ship and The Royal Oak, in the Borough.
Best wishes, and thank you again for letting us know.
Reg.