Preston history expert and campaigner Aidan Turner-Bishop has died

Preston history expert and campaigner Aidan Turner-Bishop has sadly passed away.

Aidan died at home on 19 December, just months after being diagnosed with cancer.

A Preston Historical Society Committee member, Aidan held various positions during his life including Chair of the Preston and South Ribble Civic Trust and Chair of Twentieth Century Society North West.

Aidan was a proud Prestonian, known for his insight into local heritage, and his commitment to promoting it on a wider stage.

He campaigned on multiple issues, most notably leading the action to save Preston Bus Station from demolition.

The current Chair of Twentieth Century Society North West, Howard Smith, paid tribute to Aidan.

Howard said: “Aidan was a prolific caseworker and advocate for buildings in our region.

“Many will remember the numerous events he enthusiastically organised and led, always with well-researched and thorough notes, the itinerary carefully judged to include the well-known as well as the off-beat.

“He was a campaigner for an extraordinarily wide range of interests beyond his work for the Society, spanning local history, the history of public transport and environmental issues, and I am sure much else besides. He pursued these with great passion.”

Howard said the Twentieth Century Society plans to honour Aidan’s “commitment and enthusiasm, and his quirky endearing humour” through a shared activity in 2023.