Tributes paid after ‘King’ of Sheffield's amateur theatre scene dies

The theatre was his great enthusiasm and a significant part of his life, which lead him to become a trustee, business manager and latterly the Chairman of the Manor Operatic Society.

He played the king in many pantomimes, but he was passionate about helping others develop their skills on stage and had a great love for amateur theatre.

An avid Sheffield United fan, he never missed a home match and held a season ticket. A Blade through and through, his lifelong passion saw him become a shareholder and executive director of the club.

Richard John Foster was born in Chesterfield on June 3, 1942, and spent the majority of his childhood in Lincolnshire after moving to the area with his family for his father's work.

There, aged 12, he first started to tread the boards with the Wainfleet Drama Group and won an award for best newcomer.

When Richard was a teenager, he moved back to Sheffield and lived in Meersbrook with his family. Here he first met Maureen, whom he would later marry, while helping with the lighting during a production at Brunswick Trinity Church, in Highfields.

In 1967, Richard started Brunsmeer Football Club – which now has around 25 teams – and became honorary vice president while working at Eric Broadhead’s butchers, on Derbyshire Lane, as a Saturday lad.

After deciding to take on the role full-time, he was later poached by Henry Tym's in Nether Edge, and in 1964 he bought into the business which he ran until 1997.

Meanwhile, he had become a much-loved member of the Manor Operatic Society and was a popular character both on and off the stage. He also enjoyed working at Sheffield City Hall, where spent 40 years.

Away from the theatre and football, Richard was an able joiner and a confident gardener who enjoyed growing vegetables including tomatoes, lettuces, and courgettes.

He was a keen fisherman and loved going away with friends, including those from Radio Hallam where he was once a presenter with Graham Blincow on the Sunday night crossword show.

Richard and Maureen also spent over five decades meeting like-minded people camping and caravanning together.

Richard is described as a “hilarious” and “talented” actor, a loving husband, dad to Sallianne and Robert, father-in-law to Liz and Tim and grandfather to Harry, Charlie, Fred and Olivia who say they will all miss him greatly.

Manor Operatic director and producer, Richard Bradford, said: “Richard’s personality shone like a beacon on and off stage and his infectious laughter resonated around any venue he graced. He was so generous with his support and was always there to offer a kind thoughtful word.

“His love for MOS was unconditional and he delighted in the success and friendship that we all shared.

“He loved seeing talent emerge and would smile quietly as he saw people blossom. His passing will leave a massive hole at MOS but his legacy and memory will live and shine forever.

“Our hearts and thoughts are with all his family at this very sad time.”

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