Mr Thomas Heesom, husband of Mrs May Heesom, died of bronchopneumonia on March 7, aged 73.

Mr Heesom, of Heathercroft Nursing Home, formerly of Woolston, was born in Lower Whitley. He was last employed as a caretaker at the Co-operative Society, and prior to that he worked as a fire and security man for 30 years at Thames Board Mills. He started his working life at a local farm, and had worked at Stretton Airfield, then as a dispatch rider.

Mr Heesom loved country and western music and enjoyed travelling around the country to watch motorbike racing. He loved family holidays in North Wales, and despite his later lack of mobility enjoyed coach tours round England and Scotland, until ill health prevented him.

He leaves his wife, two sons, three daughters and 11 grandchildren.

A service was held at Woolston Church of the Ascension on March 15, followed by cremation at Walton Lea. The Rev Barry Dryden officiated.

Arrangements were made by Co-operative Funeral Services.