A Service of Thanksgiving for the life and work of Sir Graham Bright

A Service of Thanksgiving for the life and work of Sir Graham Bright will be held in St Margaret's Church, Westminster on Thursday 31st October 2024 at 12 Noon.

Long-serving Conservative MP, Sir Graham Bright began his political career in Essex, serving as a member of Thurrock Borough Council in 1965, and then moving on to work for Essex County Council from 1967 through to 1970.

He ably served as the MP for Luton East/South for 18 years, from 1979 through to 1997 and supported Sir John Major as his Parliamentary Private Secretary, during the period of Sir John's first four years as Prime Minister, before moving on to serve as Vice-Chairman of the Conservative Party from 1994–97. Sir Graham was to receive a knighthood in 1994.

Sir Graham was dedicated to public service, looking to help his constituents at any opportunity and this was never clearer than during his time as a Police and Crime Commissioner for four years (2012 - 2016) and his work to bring about the legislation for the Video Recordings Act.

The service for Sir Graham will be chance to share the memories he left to those that knew him and to provide a celebration of his life, focusing on his devotion to public life and politics, law and order, and the care for those he represented.

To attend the service, click on 'select tickets' top right and register for the tickets you would like which will be sent to the email address you leave in the registration. The Abbey does not share the data you leave with third parties.

There may be a bag search before entering. We ask that any sizeable luggage is deposited at a station left-luggage facility beforehand. There is one at Victoria Station for instance.

The nearest toilet facilities are located in Abbey Cloisters or at Westminster Central Hall.

The West door of the church will be open for attendance from 11.20 am and members of the congregation are requested to be seated by 11.45 am.

FAQs

What are my transport/parking options getting to the event? Nearest underground stations : St James's Park and Westminster on the Circle and District line or buses 11, 148, 24 and 26.

Do I need to bring my printed ticket(s) to the event? Yes either please bring the printed ticket or have an image to show security on entry, on the phone. Please also bring a form of photo ID with you in case you are asked to produce it with your ticket on entry to the church.

What time do the doors open? 11.20 am.

What time is the service likely to end ? 1 pm approximately

Is there a dress code for the service ? Those attending may come in smart casual or day dress. There isn't a requirement to wear dark colours as this will be a service of celebration for Graham's life and the legacy left to those that knew him.

Host or Publisher Westminster Abbey