Tributes to respected vicar who touched hearts of communities

Reverend Peter Jackson died on Tuesday after being rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries last week.

The 80-year-old father of two was driving on Tuesday September 23 when his car was involved in a collision with a Volvo skip loader on Bericote Road in Blackdown.

Mr Jackson - a dedicated fundraiser who turned 80 this summer - was cut from his car by firefighters and rushed to hospital.

He remained in a critical condition and died from his injuries a week later.

Mr Jackson was vicar at the village church in Napton for 27 years, and had lived in Kenilworth for over five years.

As well as being involved in the community as a fundraiser and long-standing vicar, he was part of the Napton-on-the-Hill history project.

He also served as chairman of the Leamington branch of the Parkinson’s group, and was a member of the Southam Rotary Club.

Mr Jackson was well known in many communities and worked with schools and churches throughout his life.

He also wrote books and poetry as a keen storyteller.

He leaves behind two grown up daughters and countless friends and a wide church community.

Mr Jackson lived in Kenilworth after many years near Napton and Stockton.

Paying tribute to his friend, former councillor, Nigel Rock described him as a “great man” and said news of his death had saddened many communities.

Mr Rock, who served as a district councillor in the villages, described Peter as a great friend and wonderful character.

“Peter was will be sincerely missed by many people in the area, including me,” he said.

“He had humour and humanity and did so much for communities where he lived.

“He was a great friend to local people and charitable causes.”

A member of the Parkinson’s branch where he was chairman for five years said: “He was a wonderful person, and this is such a tragedy.”

The group is expected to pay tributes to him at the next meeting.

Mr Jackson fundraised for a number of charities, including the Worldwide Polio Eradication Programme, which was supported by the Rotary Club.

He undertook challenges including a swimming, cycling and walking - and even talking non-stop and storytelling to raise money for a host of causes.

n Police are looking to identify the driver of an agricultural tractor unit, who was in the area at the time of the incident on September 23.

Any witnesses who can help police should contact PC David Ellames on 101.