On 30th August 2019 members of chambers joined Simon Temple's family and friends to celebrate his life at Beetham Hall Crematorium. Those present heard addresses from Simon's daughter; Charles Garside QC; his oldest rugby-playing school friend; and representatives of the Red Poll Cattle Society. Those four sources of anecdote and insight perfectly encapsulated a life of many facets.
There are many who view chambers as part business and part extended family. In Simon's case that was very much true, as his father, Sir Sanderson Temple, preceded him as a member of chambers before becoming a Judge. The name Temple is one which will resonate through the history of chambers, with Simon making a considerable contribution to that narrative.
Although ill health forced Simon to give up work, it did not compel him to give up that connection to chambers. Simon was a regular fixture at social events, particularly the Criminal Team Christmas Dinner. It was on these occasions that a new generation of criminal barristers discovered Simon's undimmed stamina, Simon often being the last person standing in the early hours of the morning, his distinctive laugh accompanying a tale or two.
Charles Garside QC remarked to the funeral that Simon's practice was defined by an unstinting sense of fairness, the strongest of ethical standards and a robust calm. Those who practised alongside him will testify to this. Those who did not can only aspire to be spoken of in such terms.
9 St John Street Chambers sends its condolences to Sally and the family.