A new plaque has been unveiled to remember one of Plympton’s best-loved characters who passed away earlier this year.
Prior to his infirmity and subsequent passing, Russell Burt known as the Plympton Owl Man was a regular sight in Plympton, often seen sitting on the hexagonal seats at the mouth of St Stephen’s Place with one or more owls or other birds about him.
People would frequently come over to talk to him and take a closer look at his feathered friends. It was therefore fitting that the new plaque has been placed at the location in St Stephen’s Place where Russ spent so many pleasant hours with his birds and chatting with passers by.
The plaque was formally unveiled by Stannator Cathy Loft and Youth Ambassador Grace Nicholls with some of Russ’s family also present for the ceremony.
The plaque was the idea of local hairdresser Andrew Briggs who is the President of Plym Chamber of Commerce and a member of Plympton Community Council. Local historian John Boulden MBE assisted with the designing of the plaque.
It has already served to bring back memories of people’s encounters with Russ. Donna Chapman said:
“I have a very fond memory of him. I was talking to him and said I was scared of birds. He made me hold an owl until I was comfortable and not scared anymore. He was a very kind man.”
John May recalled:
“I remember talking to him and he let me handle one of his owls. It made my day.”
Mechelle Rowe reminisced:
“When our son was younger we would stop and chat and he would smooth the owls.”
Janner Radio presenter Mark Chanter said:
“One lovely man, miss him lots, used to talk to him 2-3 times a week.”
(Story courtesy of Plympton Podcast)
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