The Prescot Festival remembers a well-loved local businessman and priest this month.
Reverend David Rose passed away at the age of 73 in August last year, prompting tributes from every corner of the community.
Now the town’s arts and music festival pays its own homage to the much-missed man described as a “saint” of “complete integrity and gentle determination” by the Vicar of Prescot.
David was the long-time proprietor of town-centre businesses The Wool Shop and, with his wife, Margaret Rose, the fashion boutique bearing her name.
A pillar of the community through his association with Prescot Rotary Club and ministry at St Mary’s Church, he could scarcely walk down Eccleston Street without being greeted by everyone he met.
On his passing on 15 August 2013, Prescotians described him variously as “a true gentleman,” “a great loss in every sense” and “a piece of Prescot now missing.”
As an assistant priest of the parish, David supported the Prescot Festival since its founding in 2005. He championed the cause in the community, helped secure donations, and had kind words to say about the festival in an early promotional video.
Liverpool Cathedral’s Professor Dr Ian Tracey, a one-time parish organist, dedicates his recital on Sunday 22 June to his long-time friend David.
Wednesday 25 June’s Young Instrumentalist of Prescot competition – now in its third year – has renamed its prize the Reverend David Rose Trophy, a reflection of both his love of music and his tireless service to the town.
“David’s passing has left a big gap in Prescot and in our hearts,” said Prescot Festival Artistic Director Dr Robert Howard, “so it’s a great pleasure to our many faithful volunteers and audiences to honour him and help keep his legacy alive in this small way.”
The Prescot Festival runs from Friday 20 to Sunday 29 June 2014. The full schedule is online at www.prescotfestival.co.uk.
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