Brigadier praised for 18 years at the helm of Cathedral

He arrived at his new job to steer the administration of Canterbury Cathedral with perhaps surprising credentials – as a former Royal Marine commando.

But Brigadier John Meardon brought military precision to his new role as Receiver General.

And he quickly immersed himself in knowledge of the Cathedral’s history, architecture and heritage, which was praised as “immense” at his retirement celebration on Friday.

A popular and respected figure in the Cathedral community, Brigadier Meardon has retired after 18 years at the helm of the business of running the seat of the Anglican church.

The gathering in the Chapter House to mark the occasion was led by the Dean, the Very Rev Dr Robert Willis, who said: “John is well-known for his walkabouts in the Cathedral Precincts, whether he is listening to the choristers or just appearing in workplaces in a friendly way, understanding things and giving encour- agement, perspective and calm.

“He so obviously cares for everyone involved in the Cathedral. He is fair in judgement and at the same time conscious of due process.”

Brig Meardon joined the Cathedral after serving 34 years with the Royal Marines, including as a helicopter pilot, and moved to Canterbury with his wife, Ann, to begin his new career.

He says his career highlights include the opening in 2004 of the 15th century pilgrim tunnel leading to the Martyrdom.

He also points to the making of new chandeliers to better light the crypt and the lighting scheme in the cloister – both designed, built and installed by the Cathedral’s own workforce.

Other high points have been managing two Lambeth conferences and visits from members of the Royal Family and other dignitaries.

The unveiling of the statues of the Queen and Prince Philip at the Cathedral’s west end was poignant for Brig Meardon as he was involved in finding and working with the sculptor and welcoming the Royal visitors.

But as a Deputy Lieutenant of Kent with involvement in many organisations, including as chairman of the Canterbury Choral Society, director of Visit Kent, a trustee of Canterbury Archaeological Society, president of Canterbury and Herne Bay Sea Cadets and member of the board of Canterbury Festival, he will remain busy.

As well as cycling, he plans to indulge in some stonemasonry, as among his retirement gifts was a gift from the Cathedral’s stonemasons – a block of Caen stone and some tools for carving.

Brig Meardon’s successor is Commodore Martin Atherton, who will be officially installed in September.

Brigadier John Meardon, who has retired as Receiver General at Canterbury Cathedral