Father back home after cancer operation (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Father back home after cancer operation

Wootton Bassett groundsman Ralph White and his family have thanked everyone for the overwhelming support they have received since he was diagnosed with cancer of the vocal cords.

Mr White, 51, of Templars Firs, returned home early from the Royal Berkshire and Battle Hospital in Reading on Friday after a successful operation on June 2 to remove his voice box.

His wife Helen, 46, said: "The support has been simply overwhelming. We've had so many cards and e-mails from friends, family, work mates and even just acquaintances in the street and we're very grateful."

Mr White is team leader of the town's groundstaff and has worked for the town council for 14 years. His two daughters have recently taken, or are taking, their finals at university.

On Thursday Mr White was fitted with a valve that will allow him to start learning how to talk again.

"It has been very frustrating for him not being able to talk but he's kept his spirits up. He was even keeping other people in the ward cheerful despite not being able to talk," said Mrs White.

Town mayor Chris Wannell said: "Ralph is a great chap with great community spirit and has got all the attributes you could wish for.

"Both he and Helen have done an awful lot for the town, whether it be things for the carnival, or other organisations and they're always willing to support.

"Ralph has done sterling work for the town council's grounds and we all wish him a very speedy recovery."

Mr White leads a team of three other staff who maintain all the council's grounds, including the town's play areas and numerous flowerbeds.

Mr White previously worked for Stratton Parish Council before joining Wootton Bassett Town Council in 1991.