Jim Newman

FAMILY of retired Devizes carpenter Jim Newman have been overwhelmed by the wonderful messages they have received since his death on January 4 aged 66.

Mr Newman, who died at his home in Bridewell Street with his loyal dog Ella at his side, was described as Mr Devizes in one anonymous condolence note.

His son Bradley, 36, and daughter Hayley, 38, have taken strength from the many cards and letters they have received. Many of them have come from people they do not know but had become friends with Mr Newman who often took Ella for walks around the town and stopped to chat to people.

His son said: "My dad was the sort of man who always asked people how they were and showed an interest in them. He was more interested in them than talking about himself. The amount of people who have said lovely things about him is wonderful."

Many people have offered to re-home Ella but she is now being looked after by a friend of Mr Newman who will continue to take her beating on shoots which were a big part of her life with Mr Newman.

Mr Newman, who was born in Hartlepool but grew up in Devizes and was educated in the town, worked as a carpenter for a number of well known Devizes firms including Rendells before becoming self-employed. He was a keen sportsman in his younger years and was a respected footballer and runner.

He was a keen member of the Devizes Torpedoes football team and other local sides.

He leaves four grandchildren Alfie, Jack, Phoebe and Madeleine.

Bradley said: "He was a family man who loved Devizes and would get homesick if he ever went away. He knew lots of people and loved having a laugh and a joke. He was full of banter."

A funeral service will take place at West Wilts Crematorium on January 25 at 4pm and will be followed by a wake at The Crown, Devizes. A collection will be made for Help For Heroes.