Bryan Albert Baker, a keen fisherman and gardener, died, aged 69, on June 17.

Mr Baker was born in Corsham and was one of nine children of George and Annie Baker, formerly of Derriads Green in Chippenham.

He lived in the Chippenham area all his life and started work as a trainee butcher, learning his skills with the Co-operative Society before working for Fine Fare supermarket in the High Street.

He then became a master butcher, working for Spar Foods until he made a career change and worked for Avon Rubber in Melksham until retirement. During this time Mr Baker met the love of his life, Lynne Morris, nee Thomas, and they shared many happy years together with her children before her death in March 2003.

Mr Baker was well known in the town, and had a keen interest in darts, cribbage, football and gardening.

He was also an avid fisherman, a passion he shared with his brothers, and he enjoyed competing against them.

His family would like to offer their sincere thanks and gratitude to the staff at the Avon Court nursing home, Dorothy House Foundation and everyone who supported Mr Baker during his short illness.