Mr James Bentham, husband of the late Mrs Anne Bentham, died on December 29, aged 98.

Mr Bentham, of Linear Park Residential Care Home, was a lifelong resident of Newton-le-Willows. He was employed as a fitter at T&T Vicars/Simon Vicars for 50 years, until retiring.

In his youth Mr Bentham was a competent sprinter and footballer, and in later life he played bowls for various local teams including Newton Cricket and Conservative Clubs, the Sunbeam Hotel and the Mesnes Park Pensioners' Club.

Mr Bentham supported Wigan Rugby League Football Club all his life, and organised many successful weekend trips to Wembley for the cup finals on behalf of Newton Conservative Club.

After giving up work he began to spend his time visiting family and relatives in Canada and the USA, making five trips in all.

Mr Bentham leaves a son, a grandson and six great-grandchildren.

A service was held on January 8 at St Helens Crematorium, followed by cremation. The Rev G Keegan officiated.

Arrangements were made by Merrony Funerals Service, of Newton.