A FOUNDING father of Bourne End Community Centre has died just two weeks short of his 82nd birthday.

Cyril Witts, 81, was a founding member of the Bourne End Community Association in Wakeman Road in 1967.

He recently moved to Chester and was expected to celebrate his 82nd birthday this Thursday August 30.

But Mr Witts, formerly of Strathcona Close, Flackwell Heath, died on Sunday following breathing difficulties.

He had moved up north to live closer to his son, Simon, but was admitted to hospital after breaking a hip.

His other son, Peter Witts, 52, of Northampton, said: "He was a real character. He'd always have a joke for everything.

"You mention a topic, he had a joke for it. He travelled the world and was very popular."

Mr Witts lived in Goddington Road, Bourne End, for 20 years before moving to Flackwell Heath around 2001 with his wife, Peggy. He remained an active member of Bourne End and Cookham Rotary Club until recently and was the president in 1991. He was also involved with the Bourne End Operatic Society.

Stuart Hyde, 71, spokesman for the rotary club, added: "We will certainly miss him because he is such a character.

"He is someone everyone got on with and all of a sudden he is gone."

His death comes as the community association celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. His wife sadly passed away last year.

Jim Penfold, friend and chairman of Bourne End Residents Association, said: "Eventually, getting the Community Centre financed in Bourne End was a terrific achievement.

"It is such an important focus for Bourne End.

It is a hub of the community and what he and his workers did at the time was a terrific foresight.

"It was really starting to expand then and it gave Bourne End a hub. He was a splendid chap."

Mr Witts worked on aircraft electronics during his career and was even part of the team that broke the world air speed record in 1956 with pilot, Peter Twiss.

He later worked at aircraft manufacturers, Chelton Ltd in Marlow. He leaves behind two children and five grandchildren.

His funeral will be held on Tuesday at St Mark's Church, Bourne End at 12.45pm and all are welcome.

Donations can be made to Arnold Funeral Services, Loudwater, on behalf of the Countess of Chester Hospital.