HUNDREDS of mourners gathered in Corsham today to pay their respects to popular shopkeeper Gerard Randall, who passed away two weeks ago.

Mr Randall, who owned the Corsham Hardware Centre in the Martingate Centre, died suddenly on Monday November 12 after suffering an aneurysm.

The 44-year-old father of three was a popular, and familiar, face in the town, where he had lived his whole life.

A funeral service was held at The Priory Street Baptist Church this afternoon and was followed by a private family burial service at the Ladbrooke Lane cemetery.

The packed church was full of family, friends and local tradesmen.

Pastor Graham Culver spoke about how Mr Randall was so well known in the town because of his shop and that many people recognised him even if they did not know him personally.

He said that Mr Randall was a familiar face that had helped many people overcome their DIY disasters.

The congregation sang the popular hymn, The Lord is my Shepherd, which was a favourite of Mr Randall's.

The service ended with Mr Randall's favourite song by Freddie Mercury, Barcelona.

As a keen autograph collector, one of Mr Randall's most prized possessions was a signature from the Queen front man.

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