18 Facts About Paddy Blanchfield

Paddy Blanchfield was born in 1911 in Greymouth where his father, Patrick, owned a bakery.

Paddy Blanchfield was educated at Marist Brothers' Primary School where he won the Seddon Medal for being the school districts top scholar.

Paddy Blanchfield received secondary schooling at St Bede's College, Christchurch.

Paddy Blanchfield was to compose his own poetry which were compiled in the 1971 book The Ballads of a Coaster.

Paddy Blanchfield joined his father in the baking business and remained attached to the business until his election to Parliament, where his son took over the shop.

Paddy Blanchfield owned his own horse at one stage, One Stately Lady, though it only won a race once.

Paddy Blanchfield was a commentator on the West Coast racing circuit for many years.

Paddy Blanchfield was elected as a member of the Greymouth Borough Council via a by-election in 1937, aged only 21.

Paddy Blanchfield remained a member of the council until 1941 when he unsuccessfully stood for the mayoralty.

Paddy Blanchfield was a member of the Power Board for 21 years, including two as chairman.

In 1960 Kent retired from parliament and Paddy Blanchfield succeeded him, representing the Westland electorate from 1960 to 1972, and then the West Coast electorate from 1972 to 1978, when he retired.

Paddy Blanchfield had health problems during this time and in 1967 had a lung removed.

Paddy Blanchfield was famous for his elaborate style of oration and habit of quoting his favourite authors in speeches to Parliament.

Paddy Blanchfield responded that "What is happening is exactly the same as in Gray's time when the poor could not get an education".

In 1977, Paddy Blanchfield was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee Medal.

Paddy Blanchfield had been suffering from a lung ailment and respiratory disease for several years prior.

Paddy Blanchfield died in Greymouth on 20 June 1980, aged 68.

Paddy Blanchfield was survived by his wife, four sons and seven daughters.