Family man Frank James Woodward, of The Mount, Trowbridge, died at the Royal United Hospital, Bath, on April 17, aged 86.

Shortly after his birth in Toronto, Canada, his mother Frances sadly died and he came to live with his grandparents Fred and Isabel Woodward, who managed Elizabeth Farm in Minety.

His daughter Isabel said: “He had a lovely childhood. He had lots of family around him. I remember asking him 'Did you ever feel you missed out not having a mother?" and he replied "No, not at all, my granny was my mum’.”

Mr Woodward enjoyed summer holidays at his auntie’s guest house in Canvey Island, Essex, where he became renowned for winning the jelly eating contest.

He joined the RAF in 1940, when he trained as a pilot in Canada with his brother, who still lived in Canada, coming to the UK to train in the Canadian army.

He met his future wife Joan just before war broke out and wrote to her throughout his military service. The couple were married at St James’ Church, Trowbridge, in 1946, and later moved to Whiterow Park.

Mr Woodward was a keen sportsman, playing cricket for his employers Wiltshire United Dairies, as well as playing and refereeing local football. He also played for Westbourne Bowls Club for 20 years and skittles for the Fix-its from The Crown in Timbrell Street, Trowbridge.

He leaves a son and daughter, four grandsons and a great-granddaughter. His funeral will be at St Michael’s Church, Hilperton, on May 1 at 12 noon, followed by burial at Hilperton Cemetery.