TRIBUTES have been paid to a much loved father, grandfather and friend to many who has died aged 90.

Bernard Twiddy died peacefully in home in Nailsworth, with his family by his side, on December 22, 2021.

He was the devoted and dearly loved dad of Linda and Marion, precious step dad of Jan, and cherished grandad to Nina, Jordan, Connor and Christian, and also a dear father-in-law to Paul.

Bernard was born in London, the only child of William and Rose.

His parents were very musical and he carried a love of music throughout his life.

After completing National Service, he worked as an engineer with Honeywell until he retired.

He married his first wife Jennifer in 1957 and they lived near London, where their daughters Linda and Marion were born.

When Honeywell relocated to Surrey in 1966, so did the family.

Bernard loved his work and only had one and a half days of sick in 40 years.

After divorcing in 1987, Bernard married Dorothy (Dot) who was 15 years his senior.

He gave up everything to care for Dot, who needed constant support in her last five years.

On becoming a widower in 2007 he subsequently became seriously ill with the auto-immune disease, granulomatosis with polyangitis.

While recovering he frequently used the Gideons Bible in the bedside table of the hospital. This gave him inspiration, purpose and a belief that he needed to devote the rest of his life to helping others.

On discharge from hospital, he decided to move to Nailsworth.

He devoted himself to others then, including through volunteering for a number of organisations and helping at the local school with the sports clubs, PSALMS (Putting Sport Alongside Local Ministries) and 'messy church'.

He loved driving and cars, and in 2008 he purchased a brand new gold Jaguar XF, a very rare treat to himself.

He became known throughout Nailsworth, carrying people to events, weddings, hospital appointments or meetings.

He also loved steam trains, and for many years volunteered at the Talyllyn Railway in Wales, eventually becoming a fireman.

He was very creative and in lockdown he built steps up his back garden with a seating area at the top so he and his family could enjoy the beautiful views.

“Bernard was a truly amazing man, father, friend and grandfather,” said his daughter Marion.

“He was honest, kind, loving, supportive and full of enthusiasm for life and full of faith.”

Bernard's funeral service is taking place at St George's Parish Church, Nailsworth, tomorrow (Wednesday, January 26) at 12pm.

Family flowers only, donations in lieu may be sent for (and made payable to) Through Faith Missions Ltd. c/o Fred Stevens Funeral Directors, Newmarket Road, Nailsworth. GL6 0DQ or donate online at: www.fredstevens.co.uk