RETIRED Trowbridge trader Richard John Rose died in hospital on Sunday morning after a stroke. He was 82.

Mr Rose ran Rose's Stationers, in Wicker Hill, for 48 years until his retirement in 1984.

His wife Peggy said: "He was a gentle person and kind, and very much loved by people round here.

"He was very well respected and was a great help to people in the shop. People still talk about Rose's."

The couple, married for 52 years, have a son Michael who lives in America.

Mr Rose, of Silver Street Lane, was born and bred in Trowbridge and after leaving school joined the family business.

The shop, which was sold when he retired, was set up by Mr Rose's grandfather and run by his father before him.

The couple spent his retirement travelling the world.

His funeral will be at noon on Wednesday at Upper Studley Church, Trowbridge.

Family flowers only are requested and sprays not wreaths. Donations in memory of Mr Rose will go to the Motor Neurone Disease Society and can be sent to Barkers Funeral Directors, 52 Bond Street, Trowbridge.