Orpington 1st BID has announced the appointment of Gary Valentine Fuller as its new Chairman today, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the organisation dedicated to championing local businesses, increasing footfall and driving investment across Orpington town centre.
Gary has served as a Director of Orpington 1st BID for a number of years and now steps into the role of Chairman following his appointment by the Board. The position is entirely voluntary and reflects his long-standing commitment to supporting the local business community and the future of Orpington.
Gary is the Managing Director of Valentines Family Funeral Directors in Orpington and G.M. Valentine Family Funeral Directors in Royal Tunbridge Wells, businesses he owns and operates alongside his wife and Co-Principal, Kirsty Valentine Fuller. His journey in the funeral profession began at just fifteen years of age as a hearse cleaner in Peckham. More than twenty years later, he has become one of the most recognised voices in British funeral care, representing the profession nationally through appearances on BBC Panorama and Channel 4.
Alongside his business achievements, Gary has built an extensive record of civic and community service. He is the Chairman of the Royal British Legion, Orpington & District Branch, a school governor, Rotarian, Freemason and Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Upholders in the City of London. He is also a member of the East India Club and a former Army Reservist, bringing a strong ethos of service, leadership and commitment to every role he undertakes.
Gary is the Immediate Past President of the London Association of Funeral Directors (LAFD), the oldest funeral trade association in the United Kingdom, where he champions professional standards, education and dignity across the profession. He is also co-author, alongside journalist Greg Watts, of the forthcoming memoir No Glory on the Slab, reflecting on his twenty-year career supporting families through bereavement, tragedy and some of the country’s most challenging moments.
Speaking about his appointment, Gary said:
“I am both proud and humbled to have been appointed Chairman of Orpington 1st BID. Having served as a Director for a number of years, I have seen first-hand the positive impact the BID has on our local businesses and our town centre.
“This is an entirely voluntary role, and I have accepted it because I genuinely believe in giving something back to the town that has supported my family, my business and so many of the causes close to my heart.
“Orpington has an outstanding community spirit, fantastic independent businesses and enormous potential. I look forward to working closely with my fellow Directors, local businesses, community organisations and our public sector partners to strengthen our town centre, encourage investment and ensure Orpington continues to thrive for generations to come.”
Orpington 1st BID said Gary’s appointment reflects his deep roots within the community, his proven record of civic leadership and his ability to bring businesses, organisations and local stakeholders together to deliver positive change.
A father of two and stepfather of one, Gary lives locally with his family and remains a familiar face around Orpington. He is widely recognised for his warmth, humour and unwavering commitment to supporting local people, businesses and charitable causes.
