In Memoriam Richard Searle
Richard Searle, – 2025
Groups: Canterbury, Aescinga, Danelaw
Richard joined the society in the 1980s, initially as part of the Canterbury Sveiter and then Aescinga. Standing at around 6'2" he was an imposing figure in combat, with a good reach and a quick arm which served him well both on the field and in combat competitions where he usually did well especially against shorter opponents. He was one of the original Canterbury group who appeared at Denbigh in 1989 with exceptionally large shields (around 36-38" diameter compared to the 24-30" considered normal at that time), and enjoyed the extra protection they gave him, and the discomfort they brought to the rest of the society.
Richard became part of Danelaw when Aescinga faded, having played an active part in the acted scenarios at major events where many of the other regulars were Danelaw members, or became members shortly afterwards. For some time previously he had been one of the "Damned", or Danelaw Affiliated Mercenaries, as they playfully termed those who happily hung around their fringes on the battle field, and participated in the games of cricket and volleyball on the campsite.
Richard's participation was cut short by a stroke in 2012, and while he made an almost complete recovery a second stroke in 2018 resulted in 24 hour care.
Having also been a member of the Sealed Knot for many years, Richard undertook a challenge at the English Heritage "History in Action" event at Kirby Hall in the late 90s to participate in multiple periods. We believe he completed 5 in a single day. He somehow also found time for LARP, and latterly was also involved in airsoft clubs.
He will be remembered for his wit and humour, which at times was immediate and uncontrollably funny, while at others it could be cutting for those on the receiving end. He was generous in his delivery of it. At a combat competition where a new member was drawn to fight Pete Carss (champion for several years running by that point), some wag instructed the newbie to "Fight the man, not the reputation". Richard immediately observed that it might be better to "fight the reputation, and hope the man didn't turn up".