The wife of a keen walker with a “quirky sense of humour” has paid tribute to her “bright” husband who passed away last month.

Tim Kendell, who lived in Flackwell Heath and was a prominent figure in the community, passed away aged 74.

His wife, Pat, has now paid tribute to her husband and says she has been “overwhelmed” by the support she has received since he died on May 16.

Originally from Dartford in Kent, Mr Kendell lived there until he was nine before moving to Sevenoaks.

The couple moved to Flackwell Heath from Ealing, West London, in 2002 when they were “at the point of retirement” because they enjoyed making trips to the county to walk in the Chilterns.

Mr Kendell enjoyed being part of the Flackwell community, taking part in activities at the community centre and editing monthly newsletter, The Grapevine, from 2005 until 2011.

Mrs Kendell said: “He enjoyed writing The Grapevine because he was very interested in people and loved interviewing them. He was very much a people person.

“He was a very bright man, he had many skills. He was particularly fond of gardening projects, he was good with wood. He was very creative in a sense of being able to carry out a task.

“He had a quirky sense of humour and a tender heart. He was much loved by a lot of people.”

Before retirement, Mr Kendell had a “varied career” working in communications, publishing and as a small business adviser.

Mrs Kendell said: “He was fascinated by people’s amazing ideas and he always gave sound advice and encouragement.”

The avid walker, who was a member of the Chiltern Society along with his wife, was very “hands on” and looked after paths and ponds throughout the Chilterns as part of the conservation charity’s work.

Friends and family remembered Mr Kendell’s life at his humanist funeral service last Monday by sharing tributes and memories, as well as listening to musical pieces like ‘I Want to Hold Your Hand’ by The Beatles.

He has now been laid to rest in GreenAcres Woodland Burial Park in Potkiln Lane, Jordans.

Sue Arnautov, editor of The Grapevine, said: "The Flackwell Heath Community Association and their newsletter 'The Grapevine' were very sad to hear of the death of Tim Kendell. 

"He edited The Grapevine from 2005 to 2011 and made various innovations, including the move to full colour which greatly improved the pictures.

"Thereafter he continued as Deputy Editor, writer, advisor, encourager and all-round facilitator. He will be much missed, and our condolences go to his wife Pat and family."

If you have any memories of Mr Kendell you would like to share, get in touch by calling 01494 755 096 or email Stephanie.wareham@london.newsquest.co.uk.