Richard Spedding - Humanist wedding, vow renewal & funeral celebrant

30/10/2025

Famous people born in this town include:

A drummer in one of my favourite bands.

A goalkeeper from my favourite football team.

Pop a comment on if you think you know where it is!

30/10/2025

Remembering Larry Warburton, who joined Lancashire Police in May 1969 and rose to the rank of inspector before his retirement.

At his funeral yesterday, his son Alex shared touching words, recalling how Larry once described himself as just “a scruffy kid from Blackburn” before embarking on his incredible career.

I shared many stories of Larry's time in the force that brought laughter and warmth to those gathered.

While his police career was a significant part of his life, it didn’t define him entirely, though, it was through his service that he met his beloved wife, Bev.

This photo captures Larry giving back to his policing career, by volunteering for the Police Care Uk Charity, which supports both serving and retired officers.

His legacy of service and kindness will always be remembered. 💙

28/10/2025

They say a picture tells a thousand words, and this one of Niamh Garnett, taken at Kendal Calling Festival, perfectly captures her wonderful, bubbly personality.

As a celebrant, I have a unique perspective on the preciousness of life, and Niamh’s journey, though tragically cut short at just 20 years, left a lasting impact on everyone around her.

Those 20 years were non-stop fun, not just attending music festivals but also numerous weekends in the Lakes walking and paddle boarding along with being a key member of Rarity School of Dance & Drama, top ice-cream seller at Truly Scrumptious Luxury Ice Cream and being a regular site on nights out in Blackpool with friends.

Her warmth touched countless lives—especially her family, friends, and the clients she cared for at Zora Hairdressing salon.

The turnout at her funeral yesterday at Lytham Crematorium, with Lytham Funeral Service Ltd, was a beautiful testament to how loved Niamh truly was. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

Also, a massive shout-out to dedicated volunteers who go out of their way to help others - in Niamh’s case Keswick Mountain Rescue💖

26/10/2025

If you can, try and do some research for the right celebrant - but a good Funeral Director is always good at matching!

24/10/2025

My effort for Wear it Pink Breast Cancer Awareness Day!

24/10/2025

🌸 Today is Breast Cancer Now Breast Cancer Awareness Day, a vital reminder for all of us to shine a light on this important issue.

I’m in total awe of those currently undergoing treatment and those, like my wonderful wife, who have bravely come through it, no matter the outcome.

As husbands, partners and so on, we play a crucial role in helping our partners detect potential signs of breast cancer. If you have any concerns, then do mention them.

Let’s stay informed, proactive, and supportive. Together, we can make a difference!

Right, off to search through my wardrobe for plenty of pink to wear today!

💖

23/10/2025

I’ve been lucky to have had many celebrities involved in my ceremonies.

Today, it was the turn of the legendary ‘international man of the paranormal,’ himself, Mr. Clinton Baptiste, who delivered a heartfelt message on behalf of John Holt during his funeral today with Preston Co-op Funeralcare

Mr Baptiste encouraged everyone to link arms and sing Bob Marley’s uplifting classic ‘Three Little Birds’—what a beautiful way to celebrate John’s life!

John was a remarkable man: a loving husband to Kath, a proud father to Steve and Adrian, who both spoke so fondly of their father, and a grandad to Josh, George, Lauren, and Oliver.

His passions ran deep, from being an avid equestrian with the Blackpool and Fylde Horse Club to mastering the martial art of Wing Chun.

Here’s to a life well-lived and the joyous memories we carry forward! 🎶❤️

23/10/2025

🌟 Remembering Jimmy Kemp 🌟

Yesterday, I celebrated the life of one of the most resilient characters I’ve ever spoken about.

Jimmy Kemp, grew up in Stenhousemuir, Scotland, and made Blackpool his home 35 years ago, truly embodied the definition of 'bouncing back’.

His workjourney was anything but ordinary—an engineer, a proud member of the RAF, and a travelling salesman who sold everything from tools to ski yogurt (yes, I played the theme tune at his funeral!).

He was a devoted husband to Isa, a loving father to Brian, Carol, and Alan, and a cherished grandad to Chris.

Jimmy had a passion for collecting, not just gold rings but also mobile phones and an impressive collection of around 150 watches, many of which he lovingly repaired for his friends at the Highfield Road Social & Recreation Club.

A true character and a beloved friend, Jimmy will be sorely missed. 💔✨

15/10/2025

Yesterday, we gathered to celebrate the incredible life of Harry Ashurst, known to many as the singer Tony Kimble.

His voice graced stages far and wide, from the vibrant shores of Spain to the historic charm of Malta, and he made unforgettable memories during a summer season in Blackpool at the Number One, compered by his best mate Syd.

At his funeral, we were touched by the sounds of Harry singing "Moon River" and "The Green Green Grass of Home," a fitting tribute to a man who brought so much joy through his music.

Harry led a remarkable life, serving as a director of Leigh Rugby Club and thriving as a hotelier, notably at the New Osterley next to the Winter Gardens.

He was always supported by his devoted wife Barbara and their children Kim, Tony, and David.

Harry was truly one of life's characters, sharing his laughter, stories, songs, and love with everyone fortunate enough to know him. We’ll miss you, Tony. Thank you for the memories. ❤️🎶

15/10/2025

👏 👏 👏

A new record number of attendees. Not only is that 6507 men getting support. That’s potentially 6507 partners, parents, friends, and families of these men all seeing the benefit of AMC. All getting to spend another day with their loved ones.❤️

15/10/2025

🎶 Not many of you may know this, but the incredible Frank Turner is a patron of Humanists UK!

So, at great personal sacrifice, I'm off to Milan today to see him live. 🎤✨

Fingers crossed 🤞 for a heartfelt chat about all things humanism afterwards! 🤪

And to top it off, he’s supporting my all-time favorite band, the Dropkick Murphys! Can’t wait for an unforgettable night!

s

14/10/2025

🌟 Remembering a Legend: Stephen ‘Hubby’ Hubert 🌟

From Oldham to Fleetwood, Hubby was a true character who left a mark on everyone he met.

Known for his incredible snooker skills, once beating the great Alex Higgins and almost took down Jimmy White! 🎱

But he wasn’t just about the game; Hubby earned the nickname ‘Fleetwood Precision Cue Doctor’ for his expert cue repairs.

A devoted supporter of Oldham Athletic, he was over the moon to witness their return to the football league at Wembley with his son, Stephen, this year. ⚽️

As a loving father to Stephen and Richard, and cherished son to Grace, he brought joy to so many, with the crematorium filled to the brim today at his funeral with J T Byrne Funeral Directors.

His karaoke performances at Shrelle’s Fleetwood were legendary, filling the room with laughter and music. 🎤

Here’s to Hubby, a one-of-a-kind spirit whose stories and antics with his mate Rocky and others will forever be remembered. 💙✨