Cornish AA Legend Martin Hubbard Remembered as Mentor
A Pillar of Cornwall’s Motoring Community
The Automobile Association has mourned the loss of Martin Hubbard, a respected roadside patrol and mentor who became a cornerstone of the organisation’s presence across Cornwall. Martin, who was just 57, passed away peacefully at his home in Mount Hawke near Truro, leaving behind his wife Vanessa and two sons, Kieran and Josh. His two-decade career with the AA—beginning in June 2002—touched countless lives throughout the county, from the coastal roads around Fistral Beach and Newquay to the rural routes inland. Those who worked alongside Martin describe someone whose impact extended far beyond the technical expertise he brought from his previous role at Volkswagen. He became the backbone of the team, progressing from patrol duties to regional tool checker before taking on a crucial mentoring role that shaped how the AA operates in our region today. His colleagues remember him not just as a skilled professional, but as someone who genuinely cared about supporting both the team and the members they served every single day.
The Mark He Left on Local Teams
What made Martin exceptional wasn’t simply his knowledge of vehicles or his ability to troubleshoot roadside problems—it was his unique gift for bringing people together. Matt Thomas, his close friend and fellow colleague, describes Martin as far more than just a work contact. ‘He was a mentor and someone who helped shape the Cornwall team into what it is today,’ Thomas reflects. Martin’s approach to leadership was characterised by humour, genuine kindness, and an instinctive understanding of when to offer practical support versus when to share a well-timed joke. He had a rare ability to make difficult days manageable and good days even better. Even after stepping back from formal roles around 2023, Martin remained deeply involved, sending regular messages to the patrol WhatsApp group—often accompanied by a pint photo on Friday or Saturday evenings—thanking colleagues for their hard work and reminding them to look after themselves. These seemingly small gestures encapsulated everything his team valued about him: thoughtfulness, appreciation, and genuine care for those around him.
What This Means for Our Community
Martin’s passing represents a significant loss for everyone who relies on the AA’s support throughout Cornwall—whether you’re heading to Fistral Beach for a weekend break, visiting Newquay attractions, or navigating our winding country roads. The patrol teams he mentored and supported will continue his legacy of excellence and dedication. His funeral at Treswithian Downs Crematorium in Camborne on May 28 saw colleagues gather to celebrate a man who, in his quiet way, defined what it means to be a true community asset. For those in the motoring world, Martin’s story is a reminder of how professional skill combined with genuine human kindness creates lasting impact. If you’ve ever been helped by an AA patrol in Cornwall, you’ve benefited from the culture Martin helped build. His colleagues have committed to honouring his memory by continuing to deliver the same level of care and expertise he demonstrated throughout his 20+ years of service. To the AA team in Cornwall: Martin’s warmth and dedication will continue to inspire the work you do for our local community.
Source: Cornwall’s AA legend was ‘friend, a mentor and helped shape the team’
