THE large congregation at Royal Wootton Bassett Methodist Church thanksgiving service for the life of Peter Matthews reflected the widespread regard for a familiar local figure whose family settled in the town more than 50 years ago. Mr Matthews died in hospital after a brief illness, shortly before his 86th birthday.

Peter Read Matthews, originally from Reading, was based in Norwich during National Service in the RAF. He first met his wife Ray in 1956 and they were married at Reading in 1959.

Their son Simon was born in 1961 and daughter Sian in 1964, the year when the family settled in Wootton Bassett.

The Rev David Perkins described Mr Matthews as a caring, kind, supportive family man, who was a true gentleman with a wonderful sense of humour.

Mr Matthews, a draughtsman, was employed by companies in Swindon, and subsequently worked independently. Later, Mr and Mrs Matthews were popular proprietors of The Crafty Coffee Pot, off Wootton Bassett High Street. Peter was fond of classic cars, music, motoring and singing, and enjoyed family life, including the activities of their four grandchildren, one of whom (Amelia) wrote a poem in tribute to their grandad.

The minister recalled Peter's great honesty, integrity and sound judgment. He enjoyed involvement in local community life, and helped to decorate floats for the town carnival, as well as assisting with events at Wootton Bassett School (now the Academy) where his wife was a long-serving senior member of staff, and where they continued to patronise events, in retirement. Mr Matthews enjoyed history, architecture, classic cars, the National Trust and the Steam museum.

Despite the sorrow of parting, Mr Perkins reminded the congregation, “Love is not merely for our existence here.” Hymns at the service included Crimond and Cwm Rhondda. Introductory and closing music was from the National Trust collection of recordings, depicting Gardens and Landscapes.

Cremation had taken place earlier at Kingsdown. After the thanksgiving service, refreshments and further reminiscences were shared at St Bartholomew’s Church Hall. Memorial donations for Macmillan Nurses may be sent c/o Johnson & Daltrey, 112 High Street, Royal Wootton Bassett SN4 7AU.