Born in 1947, Eric Hepplewhite is a true Lanchester local, with a lifelong connection to the village he calls home. He married his wife Sylvia at Lanchester Methodist Chapel in 1970, and together they have two sons and two grandsons who all still live locally.
Eric spent his working life in the caravan and leisure industry, including many years with Elddis and Compass Caravans. Even after retiring in 2012, his passion continued—marked by the purchase of a new Elddis motorhome.
A dedicated youth leader, Eric has given over 40 years to Lanchester Boys’ Brigade and hopes to still be involved when it celebrates its centenary in 2029. He also supports young people through the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme and helped build lasting links with Boys’ Brigade groups in Denmark.
Inspired by the Tower of London poppy display, Eric led a village-wide project that created over 4,000 handmade poppies for Lanchester. The display featured on BBC Look North and raised £14,700 for the Royal British Legion.
Eric also manages Croft View Halls, continuing his lifelong commitment to supporting young people and community life in Lanchester.
As Eric says:
“There is nothing you cannot do.”
Story and photographs by George Ledger – Communities in Focus
