Remembering
Kevin Twigg, ‘Mr Cockermouth’

 The world is full of good people. Full of those who make a difference; those who touch the lives of others; those who use their time to make things better. 

The world is full of good people, but, it only had one Kevin Twigg; only one ‘Mr Cockermouth’.

 It is with total sadness that we write that our ‘local legend’, Kevin has lost his battle with Coronavirus, passing away on the 6^th of April.

 In Kevin’s memory, the memory of a man who impacted so many lives, this page has been created to support the charity he helped to create; to continue the work he started.

Everyone that knew Kevin described him as a gentleman, kind, compassionate and someone who believed that everyone should be treated equally and fairly. 

Never limiting himself, Kevin channelled his powerful enthusiasm and beliefs into charity work. Always trying to help those in need whilst all the time managing to overcome his own challenges. He was generous and happy to share a smile, a good crack and a laugh with all those he met.

 Kevin was a founding member of the local Charity People First Independent Advocacy, an organisation that he helped to set up to stand up for the rights of people with Learning disabilities. Kevin was a Director and supported the organisation to grow into one of the region’s largest advocacy providers.

 In his memory Kevin’s Sister and her Family have asked that anyone who would like to make a donation in his memory should donate to People First… his organisation! 

Any donations received will go towards helping other people with learning disabilities in Cumbria to have their rights and choices listened to and respected.

 People First stands up for the rights of those in need, people who are overlooked and devalued. Kevin was passionate about people with learning disabilities living their best lives, lives that are rich, full and equal. 

Kevin never took himself too seriously, dressing up and acting the goat in order to raise money for numerous charities, walks and sponsored silences (never easy for Kevin), a selfless man who cared so deeply about others.

 David Blacklock the CEO of People First said: “I knew Kevin really well, we worked together for around 20 years, he helped me to set People First up in the West of Cumbria and without him we would definitely not be the organisation that we are today. I remember Kevin speaking at national disability rights conferences and making sure that everyone knew that just because you have a disability doesn’t mean to say that you are lesser than anyone else. He was a powerful advocate and I’m so sad that he’s gone.”

In honour of Kevin, People First will be naming an award after him, to keep his memory alive and his legacy ongoing.

 Mr. Cockermouth. A local legend. We say goodbye to someone who meant so much to so many. Thank you Kev for all you did, for the lives you made better and the memories you gave us.

 Thank you.