The daughter of a founding member of two bowles club has paid trubute to her father, describing him as a “pure gentleman”.

William Jones, known locally as John Jones, died aged 97 at his Bedwell Crescent home, in Stevenage, on March 17.

Mr Jones was a founding member of both the Stevenage and District Indoor Bowls Club and the Bragbury House Bowls Club.

He had served as a fire lookout during World War II before moving to Stevenage in 1956, working as a draftsman for British Aerospace (BA).

He worked for BA for the remainder of his working life until his retirement in 1981. He continued to be involved with the bowls clubs until his death.

His daughter, Linda Lewing, said: “I think it was the bowls that kept him going in many ways. It invigorated him and gave him a lot of pleasure.

“Everyone says he was one of the last pure gentleman. I think he will be remembered as a very loving and caring man who was extremely family-orientated.

“He loved going out for family meals and being with his grandchildren. Our lives will never be the same again. His family and friends will miss him greatly.”

Mr Jones’ funeral will be held at the Harwood Park Crematorium on Wednesday April 9. Well-wishers are asked to donate to the East & North Herts Hospital Charity.