GLASTONBURY MP Sarah Dyke has tabled a motion to recognise Ray ‘Merlin’ Rutter, the town wizard, who passed away recently at the age of 77.
The Liberal Democrat MP for Glastonbury and Somerton has tabled an Early Day Motion (EDM) in Parliament to honour the life and legacy of Ray, who passed away after it is understood he suffered a stroke.
Often to be found around the town in his distinctive blue robes and wizard hat, Ray provided rune readings to visitors outside Glastonbury Abbey and chatted with visitors and residents alike.
READ MORE: Tributes pour in to Glastonbury wizard Ray ‘Merlin’ Rutter
Ms Dyke said: “Merlin was a true embodiment of the community spirit that makes Glastonbury so special.
“His kindness, warmth, and passion for bringing people together will be deeply missed.
“He was not only a beloved local figure but also a champion for those in need, dedicating his time to initiatives that supported our community.
“I wanted to ensure that his legacy is recognised and celebrated in Parliament, and my thoughts are with his family, friends, and everyone in Glastonbury who had the privilege of knowing him.”
As well as being well known in the community, Ray was a dedicated volunteer and advocate for the Love Glastonbury Community Fridge, a vital local initiative aimed at redistributing fresh food to those in need and tackling food poverty while reducing food waste.
The EDM formally acknowledges ‘Merlin’s’ contributions to the town and his impact on the lives of so many.
The full text of the Early Day Motion submitted by Glastonbury and Somerton MP Sarah Dyke:
“That this House celebrates the life and legacy of Ray Merlin Rutter, who has sadly passed away at the age of 77; recognises Merlin’s singular contribution to the Glastonbury community, where he was a beloved and well-known figure, often seen wearing his distinctive blue robes and wizard hat; acknowledges that Merlin offered rune readings to visitors from across the world outside Glastonbury Abbey, enhancing the town’s reputation for inclusivity and community spirit, and appreciates his unwavering commitment to bringing joy to others, making him a key part of Glastonbury’s cultural fabric; expresses gratitude for Merlin’s dedication as a volunteer and advocate for the Love Glastonbury Community Fridge, a vital local initiative that redirects fresh food destined for landfill to community members in need to tackle food poverty whilst simultaneously battling food waste; commends the lasting positive impact that Merlin had on the town through his warmth and kindness; and extends condolences to his family, friends, and the wider community, recognising his presence in Glastonbury will be deeply missed, and his legacy fondly remembered.”
Glastonbury & Somerton MP, Sarah Dyke
I think this is absolutely fabulous and thank you Sarah Dyke for your EDM to recognize Merlin’s wonderful contributions to Glastonbury’s community spirit. Perhaps you could ask the trustees of the charity (Love Glastonbury) that oversees Glastonbury Community Fridge why they are refusing to allow a memorial plaque (removeable) on or around the fridge in acknowledgement of his tireless commitment to that cause – which is very frosty of them. The community is greatly upset by their refusal to allow us to honour this wonderful man’s care of our community fridge (amongst other things). Thank you so much.
We second Sally’s request to allow a memorial plaque (removeable) on or around the fridge in acknowledgement of his tireless commitment.
That fridge deserves to have his blessings for a good while longer.
Hi Sally, I’m afraid that is not correct. There is some misinformation or a misunderstanding on social media about Love Glastonbury and the Glastonbury Community Fridge. We are saddened by some of the things that have been posted online which are not true. The trustees of Love Glastonbury have not refused to allow tributes to Ray (Merlin).
At a meeting in February we decided to honour Ray and will be placing a picture of him in the fridge as part of a planned refurb. As he was such a dedicated volunteer, we are also planning a volunteer nominated ‘Merlin award for outstanding service’ in his memory.
The trustees and more than 50 volunteers are very upset by Rays passing and wholly support efforts to remember him. He was a good friend to us all.
The installation of a plaque on the building would be the responsibility of the town hall, not the charity. Has anyone approached them about this?
Love Glastonbury has helped so many people in difficult times and it’s a shame that someone is spreading negativity about such a great charity.