PETER LEE, 1926-2021

Tribute by Will Roe

FIRST Coventry Diecast Model Club (CDMC)

President and long-standing CDMC benefactor,

Peter Lee, sadly passed away earlier this year, leaving his wife and fellow model maker, Sally, and son David to mourn.

Sadly, members of the club did not hear of Peter’s passing until long after the event, although it’s doubtful any could have attended the private funeral, due to the pandemic restrictions. He is seen here with

The President’s Trophy that he inaugurated in 1990 as an annual award in conjunction with the club’s December Chop competition.

Those lucky enough to have known Peter would be the first to say he was the pure epitome of a gentleman - he would treat Queen or pauper exactly the same. He took his link with CDMC very seriously, lending his backing and support to all club ventures. For many years he supplied a cabinet as a prize in the annual December Chop competitions of the day, having a special connection with the firm of Raymond Tisdale and Company of Kenilworth. He was appointed CDMC President in 1989 and held this position until 1995, when CDMC founder, Paul Kennelly, took over the position.

Most of all, Peter was known far and wide for his skills as a brilliant model maker, ably assisted by his just as talented wife, Sally. His scale buildings of actual places have to have been seen to be believed and it must also be said how prolific these models were. No sooner than one was finished and the next was begun, involving a great deal of research and knowledge. Not just as ‘one piece’ items, but they were built in sections and could be taken apart, revealing even more incredible detail. They were exhibited at selected venues and shows around the country, and also filmed, often appearing on TV.

A visit to Peter and Sally’s home was a special occasion to be relished and remembered long after - or until the next visit when more new models were on ‘the menu’. These visits started in the lounge where, with tea and cake, you could see a preview of their latest film and you would receive a CD copy. A brief tour of Peter’s workshop followed. The next part of the visit would be to see both Peter and Sally’s diecast collection. Peter’s speciality was buses - Sally, postal and farming. Then it was time to climb the stairs to the ‘model room’ which eventually became like a miniature cinema. From then it was a feast for the eyes and sometimes even the ears, it was certainly a visit to remember and better still, even to repeat when newer models would be on display. Occasionally, Peter would bring one of these models along to a club night, where members could examine these small wonders up close. In 2000, club members visited Peter and Sally’s home for ‘the experience’ first hand.

Peter’s talent and wonderful nature will be sadly missed, this tribute only scratches the surface of this very special and talented person. Rest in Peace Peter, like your models, you were a ‘one off’. ■