Obituary: Paul Lowe

By Beverley Unsworth

Paul Lowe, or 'Big Lad' as he was affectionately known to many, was the true heart of the MRI department at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

The kind of leader you never forget. Paul was a straight-talking, bold, no-nonsense character - always true to himself. In meetings, he was a force of nature with a strong presence. He spoke up, standing firm and was fiercely protective of his department. 

He set high standards at all times. Paul started his radiography career training at the University of Salford and undertaking his clinical practice at Hope Hospital, Salford. 

Paul commenced work at Royal Preston Hospital in 1998. He first worked in the main x-ray department for a short time before branching off into MRI, CT and neurointervention. 

From 2017 Paul worked solely in MRI where he continued to climb the ladder in his career, successfully gaining a lead radiographer post. From here, he was further promoted into the position of principal lead radiographer. 

It was truly in his management roles that Paul really came into his own. He poured his energy into his work - he lived it, breathed it, slept it, loved it. He was so deeply committed to his department and led with both heart and conviction. He had an immense sense of pride for everything he helped build. Work was his unmistakable passion.

A proud Wigan lad through and through, who specifically hailed from Platt Bridge. Paul’s Wigan roots ran deep, and his distinctive lexicon was a true reflection of his hometown pride. His sayings brought warmth and laughter to all who knew him. 

Amongst his favorites were "I'm clempt dearth, I could eyt a buttered flag" (translation: one is ravenously hungry) to tales of eating a "babby's yed wi pey wet" (translation: eating a steak and kidney pudding with the juice from mushy peas.) We were sometimes rendered baffled and amused in equal measure.

Outside of work, he shared over a decade of love and laughter with his devoted partner, Cath. Cath wasn’t just his partner — as a fellow radiographer she was his greatest support and endorsed his potential to excel professionally in his field. Their bond was built on love, laughter, and a life lived side by side.

Paul was also a keen cyclist who loved the simple pleasure, freedom and thrill of the open road. His love of biking took him on many journeys, whether riding through quiet country lanes or tackling challenging routes abroad.

Following his passing, a powerful and emotional guard of honour was held in Paul’s memory on 18 July 2025. Stretching around the perimeter of Royal Preston Hospital, family, colleagues, friends, and staff came together to lead Paul on his final presence through the hospital he served so passionately. 

The depth of feeling was clear. It was a powerful symbol and fitting tribute. A farewell worthy of the man he was — strong, respected, and loved. His absence is deeply felt and his legacy will last for years to come.

Rest easy, Paul. You were the biggest of characters with an enormous presence and fierce spirit. You made us laugh, you made us think, and you made a lasting difference. You will be deeply missed and never forgotten. You did yourself and your department proud.

By Beverley Unsworth