Sad passing of Martin Broom
Members of all of the Broads boating and sailing communities will be mourning the loss of one of its most loved and respected members. Chairing the Navigation Committee of the Broads Authority from its inception in 1988, and being elevated to full membership of the Full Authority and one-time serving as Vice-Chairman; Martin was both an inspiration to me, as his appointed successor, and was subsequently my mentor and continuous source of advice
This, once his tenure had been curtailed by new rules that failed to recognise the continued benefit of his wisdom. I made sure of his continued involvement by inviting him thereafter to serve on the boating safety management group upon which he was active giving us sage advice until very recently.
Always the gentleman, Martin dealt admirably with the many problems, frustrations and provocations he had experienced in getting support and understanding for the navigational cause and its fair share in governance within the authority and that has been a very difficult act to follow.
In respect of his family business, Martin and Jennifer welcomed my invitation to set up a Broom Owners Club and supported me generously as its founding Chairman such that it now boasts over 400 broom boats and double that number of owners.
It is often said that passing friends will be sadly missed but this will be particularly true of Mr Martin Broom MBE, a true Broadsman! “
David Broad, October 2013