AN amateur researcher has put together a history of a famous Maldon figure for his landmark anniversary.

Lynne Raymond, 67, poured more than seven years of research into a video documentary about Edward Bright, the so-called ‘Fat Man of Maldon’, in time for his 300th birthday on Monday (March 1).

The 43-minute presentation has details about Edward’s life in Maldon, including his work, family ... and spectacular waistline.

Lynne first became interested in Maldon history when she researched the 222-year-old origins of Ansell and Sons butchers in High Street, 20 years ago.

Since then, she has managed to do an extensive amount of research in her spare time, and her work has even left a mark on Maldon’s high street history.

In 2018, a new blue plaque was installed at the building between 57 and 59 High Street to indicate where the Fat Man lived, correcting the evidence from the 1890s which said he lived at Church House, in Brights Path.

Ms Raymond said she does not consider herself a ‘historian’ but enjoys discovering more things about the famous grocer.

“I’ve been researching him for six or seven years now and I’ve started giving talks about him to local groups,” she said.

“A lot of people have said ‘You should write a book’.

“I’m not much of a writer but, as it came up to the 300 years, I thought it was something worth marking.

“The video I’ve done is based off the talks I’ve previously given.

“This is just my hobby. It’s something I never saw myself doing.

“I’m amazed at how much new information I’ve been able to discover.”

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Lynne Raymond with Grant Ford at Antiques Roadshow, Audley End 2016, Photo: M KnellerLynne Raymond with Grant Ford at Antiques Roadshow, Audley End 2016, Photo: M Kneller

Lynne’s work has also been recognised on the national stage after appearing on an episode of Antiques Roadshow with portraits of Edward Bright in 2016.

She has grown incredibly attached to him and says she probably knows him better than his own descendants.

She added: “I do feel like my research has been acknowledged and is now there for people to see.

“Now, any history group can give the link to members and watch it in their own time.”

Edward Bright was born in Great Waltham and moved to Maldon when he was 12½ to be apprenticed as a grocer.

After a successful career, he died at the age of 29, weighing 44 stone, hence his famous name.

To watch the full presentation, click here.