Lambourn mourns passing of George Bodman

LAMBOURN has lost one of its favourite sons.

George Bodman died at his home on Friday night, June 17, aged 92.

Mr Bodman had lived in the same house in the village all his life and was known for giving everyone a cheery greeting and a tip of the hat – as well as helping to keep Lambourn tidy and cleaning up road signs.

A friend and fellow villager, Liz Beard, said: "He had a wonderful day earlier, seeing friends at the sports club.

"He made a point of greeting everyone, almost as if he knew somehow and was saying goodbye.

"We're all so sad – he really was dearly loved."

Two years ago villagers threw a party for ‘Mr Lambourn’, with a spectacular 90th birthday cake, at the Walwyn Hall.

Local historian Mick Dowdeswell said at the time: “George has been a great servant of Lambourn all his life, having had to run the coal business and the small farm from an early age, along with his elder brother Louis, who was born in July 1927.

“George saw military service in the Royal Army Medical Corps from 1953 till 1955, and thoroughly enjoyed his time in that, making good friends who he has kept in touch with over the years.

“He has also been an avid litter picker around the streets and has also been seen cleaning the dirty road signs about the area.

“He is and has always been, the perfect gentleman."

In 2013, Bodman Close in Lambourn was named after him.

Funeral details have yet to be finalised but a service is being planned at St Michael and All Angels Church.

It is anticipated a wake will be held afterwards at the Royal British Legion club.