From peacocks to the Pope... Gordon Gray looked after them all
A FORMER mace-bearer and one of the last custodians of Cardiff Castle has died.
Tributes have been paid to respected Cardiff figure Gordon Gray following his death on February 5.
Born in Cardiff, Gordon served in the RAF before trying his hand as a horse trainer, baker, lorry driver and bus driver.
Balancing work with his time in the Territorial Army, he was offered the role of mace-bearer for Cardiff’s Lord Mayor after leaving GKN steelworks.
From that point on, Gordon worked his way up to become joint custodian of Cardiff Castle with his wife Beryl.
The promotion saw the duo move into the castle to take on duties including looking after the entrances and gates, the building and the rooms, among other things.
Managing a team of about 60 staff, Gordon and Beryl saw a tearoom and gift shop open under their watch, as well as hosting countless events.
However, for them, highlights of the job including seeing their grandchildren play in the snow in the castle grounds, and welcoming guests including Lady Diana, the Queen Mother and other members of the Royal family.
Reminiscing about his time as custodian in 2018, Gordon said: “We have met every person there is to meet – everyone from the Pope in 1982, to the Queen Mother, Princess Diana and Prince Charles.
“Over time, most of the people we met came to call us Gordon and Beryl. “I remember once the police rang us telling us the peacocks had broken out and were halfway down Queen Street outside Marks & Spencer.”
Not one to sit still, Gordon went on to hold the role of toastmaster at the Welsh Assembly and for business events after leaving the castle.
During a rare quiet moment, the father-of-three and grandfather-of-six was also fond of gardening, lunches out with family and helping neighbours.
In 2018, Gordon and Beryl celebrated their diamond wedding after meeting as teenagers.
He will be sorely missed by Beryl as well as children Colin, Lorraine and Michael, his six grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
Since Gordon’s death his family have received hundreds of cards paying tribute to the Welshman’s kindness, considerate nature and willingness to help anyone.
Gordon’s funeral will be held on Friday, March 1 at Thornhill Crematorium at 2pm. Those attending are encouraged to wear a daffodil to celebrate St David’s Day.