'Little Walter' Named In Memory Of B4RN Stalwart
May 5th, 2023
B4RN has named one of its new moleploughs 'Little Walter', in memory of B4RN stalwart Walter Willcox.
When B4RN took delivery of the 'Ditch Witch' model earlier this year, we asked the public what we should call it and the clear winner was to name it in honour of our shareholder number one.
His daughter, Anneli, says it's a fitting tribute: "I am touched beyond measure that so many people voted to call your new moleplough 'Little Walter'. It is wonderful to know that his namesake will continue to help the communities in an area of Britain that he loved so much and where he was determined to help bring to the rural areas not only an up to date, but also a future proof internet service.
"He used to talk so animatedly about B4RN; the place, the people, the equipment, with stories of digging in all weathers from snow to sun. I clearly remember the first time he drove a moleplough and how he raved about the hugely increased speed at which cable could now be laid. There was much he said in praise of the spade, and its wielder, but with a mole plough the amount of cable that could be laid in a day increased exponentially. I can't remember the figures, I'm afraid, but I will never forget his excitement and enthusiasm.
"Since visiting your beautiful land, meeting some of the warm and welcoming people who he knew, and being taken to some of the places he went, I have memories which will last me a lifetime. I was so drawn to B4RN's vision that I too came home raving about it, and in direct response, my husband gave me shares in my own right for Christmas!
"I am proud now, to be a small part of B4RN, and will enjoy imagining 'Little Walter' as he works tirelessly to increase the areas B4RN covers."
Walter Willcox, a stalwart B4RN advocate, volunteer, was our very first shareholder (also the proud owner of our millionth share, too). Walter was a significant supporter of B4RN in the early years and that support continued right through to his retirement in 2021. He had a passion and commitment to bring full fibre broadband to the most remote parts of the country, bringing his vision to light in his home area too, with B4SH (Broadband for Surrey Hills).
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