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Former Mayor of Maidstone Brian Mortimer to be remembered with minute of applause at The World Custard Pie Championship in Coxheath

13:43, 29 May 2019

updated: 13:44, 29 May 2019

A former Mayor of Maidstone who died last week will be remembered with a minute of continuous clapping at custard pie throwing competition he helped to reboot.

Brian Mortimer, who served as mayor between 2011 and 2012, sadly passed away on Friday at the age of 65 after a battle with cancer.

Despite being celebrated for his role as a councillor for Coxheath and Hunton, for many he will be better known for reviving the World Custard Pie Championship.

Brian Mortimer (left) and friend Mike FitzGerlad with the Custard Pie Trophy
Brian Mortimer (left) and friend Mike FitzGerlad with the Custard Pie Trophy

The quirky contest, inspired by Charlie Chaplin - the first to put a multiple person pie fight on the big screen, was conceived in 1967 by another former mayor, Mike Fitzgerald, to raise money for Coxheath Village Hall.

Sadly, the beloved festival stopped in 1988.

However, thanks to Mr Mortimer, Mr FitzGerald and another former mayor, David Naghi, pastry confections were once again being hurled in 2007.

Well-known as a outgoing and fun loving man with a sense of humour, the minute of applause has been chosen over a more traditional minute of silence to better match his personality.

Pie throwing pal Mr FitzGerald said: "That's what he would have appreciated. He wanted people to come out of themselves and be a part of things.

"Brian has been a real friend, an 'Independent' Liberal who worked tirelessly supporting the community. He was a borough councillor who loved the villages he represented.

"He has been the key member of the World Custard Pie Event since 2007 and was planning to be there this year. He loved attracting teams and television to promote Coxheath.

Each year combatants pelt one another with custard pies
Each year combatants pelt one another with custard pies

"We will miss you Brian, will miss your humour, your commitment, your dedication and the meeting up after an event.

"You moved so many people on your journey and they will never forget you and you will never be forgotten."

For everything you need to know about the World Custard Pie Championship, click here.

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