Obituaries Martin Brown

Remembered by Christine Payne (Equity

General Secretary 2005-20)

Martin worked for Equity from 1992 until he retired at the end of 2016 in a series of jobs. He started out as Head of Press & Communications, becoming Assistant General Secretary for Membership & Communications in 2006 until he retired, during which time the membership increased by over 10,000.

A committed socialist and trade unionist, Martin was a friend to many Equity members and staff. His appointment marked Equity’s entry into a more professional style of communications and, as a skilled journalist, he was widely respected on Fleet Street. He took us from the world of pen and paper to our first website and the beginnings of our interaction on social media.

He was instrumental in support and a mentor to our sister union in Ghana and maintained strong links with them, as well as with the International Federation of Actors (FIA) and he was actively involved in the Equity Charitable Trust (ECT). He was our link with the Alrowwad Arts Centre in Palestine and cared passionately about their work. One of his last collaborations with them was to drive a group of eight of their dancers to venues all over the UK during their very successful tour here.

Martin spent his life working for a better world. He had a conscience which meant at times he could be brutally frank. He always spoke his mind even if you didn’t want to, but needed to, hear it.

He was a keen gardener, particularly of fruit and veg. His homemade damson jam is legendary and after retirement, he helped with the upkeep of the Abney Park Cemetery and volunteered at his local food bank.

He loved meeting up with friends over a pint at the local Labour Party, cycling with them, playing his guitar with them at the folk club, or trips in his beloved camper van. He spent many happy days with his wife Hilary at their beach hut in Whitstable, watching the sun set or rise and, of course, doing The Guardian crossword.

After a short illness, Martin died on the 19th April. He was 69. One of his last messages was “We are in bed, in sunshine eating toast and croissants and making leisurely progress through The Observer. What could be better?”

His devoted family and friends will miss him terribly and he leaves a hole that will never be filled. He also leaves many happy memories of a man you were proud to have on your side and who defined integrity, loyalty and friendship.

Martin Brown was Assistant General Secretary of Equity from 2006-2016.