Railway-loving grandfather and former Bentalls security guard dies

Surbiton man Cecil James Pitt, known as “Jim” died aged 96.

A daughter has paid tribute to her father – a former editor of a railway publication and Bentalls security guard. Surbiton man Cecil James Pitt, known as “Jim” died aged 96, from bowel cancer, earlier this month. He was born in Alton, Hampshire to parents Henry and Matilda and moved to the capital to live in Whitton before moving to Surbiton in 1977. He worked in printing and later in advertising where he was involved in famous campaigns such as the 1950s slogan “bridge that gap with Cadbury’s snack”. He also worked as an editor on the Mid-Hants News for 27 years.

His wife who passed away last year aged 88, had her ashes scattered in Kew Gardens in memory of the first date the couple shared at the gardens. They were married in a Whitton church in 1949 and had two children – Sarah Porter and Simon Pitt, who have three children altogether. Jim spent a lot of time selling poppies and meeting with like-minded, railway-loving people at the YMCA Surbiton. He also sold raffle tickets for Kingston Hospital to help raise money for the cancer unit during his 80s. He enjoyed travelling to different stations across London with his freedom pass, visiting museums and was particularly fascinated by City Airport and the Docklands Light Railway.

Mrs Potters added her father loved trips up to London, particularly Greenwich, where they enjoyed a good pie and mash together.

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