12 Jun 2024
We ask a different figure from the local community to choose 10 questions to answer from a list of 50. This week: Rev Peter Crumpler, associate minister at St Paul’s Church, Fleetville, St Albans.
Where do you walk when you want to think?
I take a walk around Hatfield Road cemetery, just across the road from St Paul’s Church. It’s a calm oasis and a place with so much history. I like to pray as I walk on the paths and reflect on people’s lives. I don’t find it morbid at all, but just a reminder that this present life is finite. I enjoy spotting the golf balls left on Samuel Ryder’s grave!
CD, vinyl, download or streaming?
I’m a latecomer to Spotify, and I’ve been loving putting together playlists of different types of music – some recent, some from my teenage years. I’m amazed that even the most obscure track can be found so easily, which probably shows my age.
How often do you check your phone?
Too often…but I always turn it off at night. I’m fascinated by social media’s ability to bring people together but am worried about its negative impacts and the power of the tech giants. I’m also concerned about the way older people are being left behind by technology and expected to go online to do essential tasks.
If you could have a conversation with someone who had died who would it be?
Probably my dad, who died more than 30 years ago. Although we were close, I’ve realised how little I really knew about him, and how many questions I have.
Are things getting better or worse?
I’m an optimist, so getting better. So many young people I meet really inspire me. They have a positive outlook on life and want to make a difference in the world. It’s great to be part of a church that has so many children and young people.
What super power would you like to have?
Hm, probably time travel. To go back and tell myself that everything will work out well. But also to realise how so much has changed in so short a time, and to be reminded bout those changes.
What was your first job?
I worked as a greengrocer’s delivery boy at a shop in Ealing, west London, cycling from house to house. After I left, they cut the wages, which weren’t that great to begin with.
What’s your favourite hidden gem in the district?
Sandridge village is a hidden gem, with three special pubs and lovely tearooms, plus a beautiful church and Heartwood Forest. What more could you want?
Where do you buy your coffee in St Albans?
My favourite coffee is from Viento, just down the road from St Paul’s, and to chat with the owner.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I always wanted to write, from producing a class magazine when I was ten. I trained as a journalist, later worked in corporate communications, and have now written for publication for more than 50 years. I still get excited when I sit down in front of a keyboard…
