In memory of George Saunders
1st April 1952 - 14th April 2019
George Saunders, born in 1952, led a remarkable life marked by adventure, resilience, and a strong commitment to improving the lives of others.
From his early days exploring the English countryside to his travels across the globe, he embraced life with a spirit of curiosity and a desire for new experiences.
A near-fatal illness in his later years challenged him physically but did not diminish his determination. Through tireless effort and rehabilitation, he regained his independence and dedicated himself to advocating for the rights and accessibility needs of disabled individuals.
George's legacy extends beyond his personal achievements. His passion for equality and his unwavering belief in the potential of every individual continues to inspire those who knew him.
George Saunders was a great activist for the cause of disabled people throughout Norwich and Norfolk and will be greatly missed by many.
George was a founding member of the Norfolk Coalition of Disabled People, Co-Chair of the Norwich Access Group (now Inclusive Norwich), and for many years a trustee of Norwich Shopmobility, who lend powered wheelchairs and scooters in the city.
George, who had Guillain-Barré Syndrome, a serious post-viral condition where you start to gradually lose your mobility helped to ensure the
Boudicca Way trail (between Norwich and Diss) could be used by people in powered wheelchairs.
He also campaigned for wheelchair-accessible buses and advised shops and restaurants on accessibility, including campaigns for dropped kerbs around the area.
“George was a mild-mannered man but he was just persistent. I think he was always optimistic... he wasn’t going to admit defeat so he kept plugging away at it; several of us would think oh I’ve had enough of bashing my head against the brick wall but he wouldn’t let go and a good job too! His work made a huge difference to the lives of other disabled people in the city of Norwich and he will be greatly missed”.
Stephanie Ash
Boudicca Way
George was one of the ‘doers’ who helped make sure that the Boudicca Way trail between Norwich and Diss could be tackled by the users of powered wheelchairs.
Bit by bit they surveyed the 36 miles, finding problems and solutions en route, including finding ways around stiles using spades and portable ramps when the
going got tricky; fording a couple of streams and having to be rescued after getting stuck in a rabbit hole.
After completion, George could proclaim that there was indeed a hiking trail in South Norfolk just waiting to be explored by adventurous disabled Power ramblers.
Norwich Access Group produced a leaflet promoting access to the Boudicca Way by power chair.
What do you need? - a robust, fully charged, outdoor power chair with puncture repair aerosol – ‘must have’ equipment includes an adventurous spirit.
“George was the most kindest man I have known. Even through his disabilities he worked tirelessly for other people with disabilities; making sure that any problem he either did his best to rectify or signposted people.
Something like a disabled bay being used as a trolley stand he would fight for until it was being used how it should. He was part of lots of groups giving his advice and gave people in the group chances to get involved and feel they were helping people just like him. He was always at the forefront of getting accessibility for people - especially in restaurants and is sadly missed."
Julie