Valerie Hindmarch preferred to be known as Val, born 12 May 1939. Passed away 28 May 2016.
Born in Leeholme, Coundon to Mary Alice Baron and John Williams.
Val’s life was one of music, adventure, travel and celebrities.
Starting her musical debut at 14 years in the Bishop Auckland Youth Choir, she became professionally trained vocalist and pianist including playing the pipe organ, which she was proud to say played at Durham Cathedral.
Her working life led her to Bishop Auckland Hospital as a secretary and their met her future Husband; Kenneth Hindmarch. Their desire to create their own business started young as they moved to York and bought a newsagency which they managed for 10 years. Family commitments brought Val back to Coundon and thereafter Newton Aycliffe where she worked in several companies; Linear, GEC, Viskase in a customer service/supervisory capacity.
Once established in Newton Aycliffe with her husband and three children, Gillian, Geoffrey & Lesley; Val become a significant part of the local community as secretary of the Arts Council; long serving member of the Operatic Society in Newton Aycliffe and Shildon.
Val’s strong religious beliefs and dedication brought her the position of secretary and organist at Neville Parade Methodist Church as well as singing in the church choir.
Later on Val founded the “Auvin Singers” based in Bishop Auckland and following the demise of the Operatic Society started her own company with her son, Musicals North providing professional shows. One of her fondest memories was starring with Danny La Rue. A further international company was born “Showcase Productions” providing entertainment to theatres, cruise ships and hotels abroad with celebrities like Paul Daniels, Canon & Ball, Little & Large to name but a few. Through this business Val travelled the world up until her sudden illness.
Irrespective of her music, work and community responsibilities her passion and love was undoubtedly always for her family.
Valerie’s Funeral will be held on Monday 6th June 2.00pm at Neville Parade Methodist Church and thereafter at Coundon Crematorium at 3.00pm. All welcome.