WELL-known Minehead peace campaigner Philippa Gerry has died, aged 92.

Ms Gerry, a member of the local Amnesty International group, was born on a tea plantation in India and spent her formative years surrounded by elephants and tigers.

Returning to Somerset, her childhood years were on a farm in West Buckland, near Wellington, and in her memoir ‘We Thought You Knew’, she fondly recalled her experiences there during World War Two, her academic pursuits at Oxford studying French, and her presentation to King George VI.

Ms Gerry’s adventurous spirit led her to Canada, before she finally settled in Minehead in 1988.

Despite initial reservations, she quickly found her place within the community, becoming a familiar face at the market on Fridays, a devout worshipper at St Andrew’s Church, a dedicated supporter of local arts at The Regal for the Barnstormers, and she also made time to listen to children read at Minehead First School.

Her commitment to the service of others through the years grew as her pen became a powerful tool for advocacy, giving a voice to those who could not always speak for themselves, writing articles, Bible notes, and prayers for St Andrew’s, while also writing many letters championing people who had been treated unjustly.

Ms Gerry’s spirited fund-raising endeavours, from emulating Captain Sir Tom Moore’s Covid charity walks to crafting blue and yellow ribbons for Ukraine, underscored her unwavering belief in a kinder, more just world.

In 2021, Ms Gerry completed 100 laps in her mobility scooter of Blenheim Gardens, in Minehead, which raised £3,060 for the charity Children in Need.

A close friend said: “Philippa’s impact on Minehead goes beyond words, she embodied compassion, empathy, razor-sharp wit, and humour in all her endeavours.

“As we mourn her passing, we find solace in the enduring legacy she leaves behind, a legacy of inspired kindness and unwavering devotion to community and her faith.”

A memorial ‘hymn, sing, and cream tea’ will be held at St Andrew’s Church, Minehead, on Saturday, June 15, at 1.30pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to Amnesty International or Amigo.