Welcome to the final instalment in our "Summer of Discoveries" spotlight series, where we celebrate the exceptional volunteer tour guides at Chichester Cathedral. These dedicated individuals are the heart and soul of our tours, bringing to life the fascinating tales held within the ancient walls and grounds of the Cathedral.
Here, we shine a light on Colin Tebbutt MVO, whose unique journey from royal protection to Cathedral tours has enriched the experience for countless visitors.
After a career in the Royal Marines and the Metropolitan Police Force in the Royal Protection Division, during which time he looked after Princess Alexandra, Princess Anne, the Duchess of York, and Diana, Princess of Wales, Colin Tebbutt found himself drawn to a different kind of service – one that involved sharing the treasures of history, many of which have a royal connection, waiting to be discovered at Chichester Cathedral. Volunteering as a guide at the Cathedral, Colin found a platform to keep his mind sharp and his spirit engaged. His tours are not mere recitations of facts; they are lively, immersive journeys through time, where history comes alive through his anecdotes and interpretations.
Bringing history to life
Colin's tours are renowned for their captivating narratives and engaging style. He seamlessly weaves together tales of the Cathedral's past, from the tumultuous Tudor period to the sacrifices of the First World War. Whether recounting the sacking of the Cathedral under Cromwell or shedding light on the signing of the King's death warrant during the English Civil War, Colin's love of history shines through. He particularly highlights the story of William Cawley, a Chichester local and one of the regicides who signed the death warrant of King Charles I. Born in 1602, Cawley was a significant figure of his time, educated at The Prebendal School in Chichester, Oxford University, and Gray's Inn.
A man of many stories
Beyond the grand historical narratives, Colin delights in sharing the smaller, quirkier stories that pepper the Cathedral's history. From the unfortunate demise of Cabinet minister William Huskisson, the first man killed by a train, whose statue stands in the Cathedral, to the late Queen’s visit to the city in 1986 for the Maundy Service—the first and only time the ceremony has taken place in Sussex—which saw Her Majesty present Maundy Money to 120 men and women from Sussex in front of a congregation of hundreds.
A dedicated and trained volunteer
Colin is a trained volunteer whose knowledge is regularly updated to ensure an enriching experience for visitors. Recently, the volunteer team has undertaken disability awareness training, including dementia awareness, enhancing their ability to cater to diverse audiences. For Colin, volunteering is a way to share his fascination with the past and to keep his mind sharp and his spirit engaged.
Legacy and impact
Volunteering at the Cathedral is not just a pastime for Colin; it’s a way to share his fascination with the past and engage with the local community and visitors of all ages. Through his tours, he seeks to impart not just knowledge but also a sense of wonder and appreciation for the rich history that lies within its walls. When not conducting tours, Colin enjoys conversing with visitors, politely asking if they would like additional insights into corners of the Cathedral that they seem taken by.