CHIPPENHAM charity stalwart Brian Coombs, who devoted most of his life to various good causes in the town, has died, aged 77.

Great-grandfather Mr Coombs worked with the Chippenham Gateway Club for disabled adults for more than 20 years and was the driving force behind making it such a success.

He died on March 28 at the Royal United Hospital in Bath after suffering from ill-health for a number of months.

Mr Coombs also worked with the Chippenham Borough Lands charity and fundraised tirelessly for CLIC Sergeant and the Chippenham Bowls Club.

Former leader of the Gateway Club Eileen Spicely said: “Brian was one in a million and so helpful to everyone he met.

“It was down to Brian all those years ago that we started taking the members on short holidays and breaks and that did them the world of good.

“He was always there for everyone and used all of his free time to help others.

“He was a great friend to disabled adults in Chippenham and he will be sorely missed.

“I don’t feel he got the recognition that he truly deserved. I cannot speak highly enough of him.

“He was a saint in our eyes as he gave up so much of his time to help with the club.

“He was literally our Father Christmas – he dressed up each year for us but also was our real life Santa. Chippenham has lost one of its greatest men, in my book. He was a star and I will miss him terribly.”

Mr Coombs joined Gateway in 1988 and was elected as chairman the following year.

He worked with the club until last year when his failing health meant he had to take a back seat.

Mr Coombs leaves his wife Ruth, sons Peter, Andrew and Mark, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

His funeral was held last Thursday and was attended by dozens of close friends and charity workers.

Money raised in Mr Coombs’ memory will be sent to Yorkhill Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.