Popular Anthony’s Travel founder loses battle against cancer
With the passing of Tony Bamber, the industry has lost one of its great characters. Aged 68, the founder of the award-winning Runcorn-based operator lost his battle against cancer last Monday (May 11).
Tony’s son Richard, who now runs the business, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the messages on our social media pages, cards and calls to the office and shows of respect. I haven’t felt much like talking to anyone but your respect has not gone unnoticed. He was not only my dad, but my business partner, my friend and my partner in crime. On Monday evening a big part of me also died with him. Since Monday Anthony’s Travel has been a sadder place but he remains forever in our hearts and in the ethos of the business.”
Paying tribute, CBW’s Editor Gareth Evans said: “I shall never forget the warm welcome I felt the first time I met him back in 2007, the year I joined CBW’s full-time team. Dad and I called in while on our way back from visiting Mike Dunstan at Bluebird in Middleton. Tea and toast and friendly banter were the order of the day – something my father still harps back to.
“As a young journalist, Tony encouraged me – in the same way he did for Anthony’s Travel team. I shall miss our periodic catchup chats over the phone – we always enjoyed a chuckle or two. The industry has lost one of its characters.”
Richard added: “We have selected three charities in dad’s memory: McMillan – which looked after him so well within his final weeks; Mark Gorry Foundation – a partner charity of Anthony’s Travel, a cause close to dad’s heart and a poignant reminder of male related cancer; and Halton Haven Hospice. My father and mother Anne have been passionate supporters of the Haven for over 30 years and the Hospice is a charity partner of Anthony’s Travel. Please feel free if you wish to make a donation to pick which charity you feel reflects you best. Donations will also be able to be made at the funeral.”
Tony’s funeral will take place at 0930hrs on Saturday, June 6 at St Michaels church, Greenway Road, Runcorn, followed by committal at Runcorn Cemetery.
