The Des Johnson Bench

Des Johnson was a Macebearer for Mayors of Newbury from 1987 until his death in 2003, and as such was the longest serving member of staff of the council. Like many Macebearers, Des was an ex-serviceman, and a keen member of the Royal Navy Association and British Legion.

I am photographed with his widow Pearl, on the new bench outside the Desmoulin Gallery on the wharf, which is dedicated to Des's memory.