It is with profound sorrow and deep regret that we bid a fond farewell to the late Adrian Bridgewater, a highly esteemed publishing entrepreneur and a staunch advocate for charitable causes supporting individuals with disabilities. Mr. Bridgewater, a dedicated trustee, exhibited a passion for the fields of career guidance and care services, leaving behind an esteemed legacy marked by his outstanding contributions to the publishing industry and the disability sector.
Adrian began his illustrious publishing career during his tenure at the University of Cambridge, where he successfully launched Image, a widely celebrated pictorial magazine catered to undergraduates. His entrepreneurial acumen was evident as the magazine garnered an impressive circulation of 10,000. Upon his graduation in 1961, he joined Cornmarket Press, later known as Haymarket, a prominent magazine group co-founded by Michael Heseltine and Clive Labovitch. It was here that he commenced his journey as a publisher, with a particular focus on directories of graduate job opportunities.
His fervent desire to assist others materialized with the establishment of the Cambridge-based Careers Research and Advisory Centre (CRAC), a charitable organization co-founded by Adrian in 1964. The centre played a pivotal role in collaborating with educational institutions and government agencies to provide comprehensive career guidance and information to individuals seeking direction.
In 1974, Adrian founded Hobsons Press, which obtained the license to publish all CRAC materials and titles, including the esteemed Hobsons Engineering Casebook. His fervent dedication to the industry was evident in the company’s expansion to Australia, its London stock market listing, and the acquisition of prestigious titles such as Johansen’s Guide to Country House Hotels.
Adrian’s unwavering commitment to excellence was further manifested during his tenure as chairman and managing director of Hobsons. He was renowned for his meticulous attention to detail and his staunch stance against any semblance of grammatical errors, earning him immense respect and admiration among his peers.
In 1994, Adrian embarked on a new venture by establishing Care Choices, a publishing house dedicated to providing information on services for the elderly and disabled. His genuine concern for the well-being of others was reflected in his role as a non-executive director of his daughter Emma Bridgewater’s ceramics business, where he took great pride in her independent success.
Beyond the realm of publishing, Adrian’s philanthropic endeavors extended to his role as deputy chairman of the Papworth Trust, an organization dedicated to providing care and support for individuals with disabilities. His extensive knowledge of the sector and unwavering dedication left an indelible mark on the trust, furthering its mission to provide assistance to those in need.
In his personal life, Adrian was a man of diverse passions, from his literary pursuits to his love for adventure. Despite the passage of time, he remained deeply engaged in various activities, demonstrating a vitality that inspired those around him.
Adrian Bridgewater’s legacy lives on through his six children, and his memory will forever be cherished by his loved ones and all those whose lives he touched. He leaves behind a rich tapestry of achievements and a legacy of compassion and dedication that will continue to inspire generations to come. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Adrian Bridgewater, born July 24, 1936, passed away on December 5, 2023.
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