CHIPPENHAM NEWS: TRIBUTES have flooded in for a Chippenham minister who has lost his year-long battle against cancer.

Described as a kind, caring and dedicated man, the Rev Ray Enticott, who had his 59th birthday two weeks ago, died at Dorothy House on Monday.

His wife Sylvia said her husband had remained strong throughout his illness and was always determined to hold services at the Central Methodist Church in Monkton Hill.

She said: "He was a lovely, caring father to the church's children and was a hardworking, patient gentleman.

"He enjoyed bringing comfort and assistance to other people and was a genuine warm-hearted man."

First diagnosed with cancer in early 2003, Mr Enticott underwent a course of chemotherapy and, last April, surgeons removed the lower part of his oesophagus.

Two-thirds of his stomach was also removed after doctors discovered the disease had spread.

Mr Enticott's son, Rob, said: "He had been recovering and everyone was hopeful because doctors thought he had been cured.

"Towards the end of 2003 he had difficulties with his digestion and on investigation in early January we were told the cancer had returned and that it was terminal.

"He was shocked and disappointed but people hoped and prayed he would be cured .

"He maintained his strong faith throughout.

"He had true pastoral ability and cared for other people."

He also praised staff at Dorothy House for the care his dad received. He said: "We were glad he was cared for at Dorothy House because they were very supportive."

Jill Waghorne, wife of church steward Rex, said everyone was fond of the minister. "We could not have had someone better," she said.

"He was easy to talk to and very caring.

"When he arrived in Chippenham, the first thing he said was that he was a very nosey person meaning that he liked to know about people so he could help them.

"Everyone feels the same about the loss because we are one big church family."

Mr Enticott was superintendent minister of the Chippenham Circuit, and was a key figure in the town's ecumenical movement, Chippenham Churches Together.

His cremation was due to take place at the West Wiltshire Crematorium, Semington, at 11.30am today followed by a service of thanksgiving at the Central Methodist Church at 2.30pm.

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