Ever wondered about the life beyond the towering chimneys and steam engines? The story of Fred Dibnah is far more intricate than the industrial landscape he so masterfully navigated, and his relationships, particularly with his wives and daughters, paint a vivid picture of a man torn between passion and personal life.
Fred Dibnah, the steeplejack who became a national treasure, was a man of immense skill and unique character. His fascination with steam engines, a childhood obsession nurtured in the shadow of Bolton's textile mills, propelled him to an unlikely television career. Hall, recognizing Dibnah's inherent charisma, wisely suggested he consider television presenting when future steeplejacking offers seemed scarce. On television, Fred broadened his repertoire, venturing beyond his beloved Industrial Revolution to explore Britain's monumental buildings and the engineers behind them in 'Fred Dibnah's' programs. But behind the captivating persona, there were complex personal relationships that shaped his life. His first wife, Alison Dibnah, played a significant role in his early success, even assisting him on jobs, such as winning a particular steeplejack endeavor under a grey sky, her presence adding to his capability. However, the story of Fred Dibnah isn’t complete without acknowledging the pivotal roles his family played, and the complexities that arose from his all-consuming passion.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Frederick "Fred" Dibnah |
| Date of Birth | April 28, 1938 |
| Place of Birth | Bolton, Lancashire, England |
| Date of Death | November 6, 2004 |
| Cause of Death | Bowel and Bladder Cancer |
| Nationality | British |
| Occupation | Steeplejack, Television Presenter, Engineer |
| Spouses | Alison Mary Foster (m. 1968, div. 1985), Susan Lorenz (m. 1987, div. 1996), Sheila Grundy (m. 1998, d. 2004) |
| Children | Three daughters with Alison: Jayne Elizabeth Dibnah, Lorna Mary Dibnah, Caroline Dibnah |
| Known For | Steeplejack skills, television series on industrial history and engineering, preserving steam engine heritage |
| Notable TV Shows | Fred Dibnah's Building of Britain, Fred Dibnah's Industrial Age, Fred Dibnah's Magnificent Monuments |
| Awards and Recognition | Honorary Doctorate from University of Paisley |
| Heritage Center | Former home at 121 Radcliffe Road, Bolton, now the (closed) Fred Dibnah Heritage Centre |
| Early Life & Fascination | As a child, he was deeply fascinated by the steam engines that powered Bolton's many textile mills. |
| First Marriage Details | He spotted his first wife alison when she was 13 and he was working on her dad's roof. |
| Reference | Fred Dibnah Heritage Centre |
