THE Oxford motor trader Des Atherton has died aged 88.

Digger, as he was affectionately known, passed away peacefully after being admitted to the John Radcliffe Hospital.

He was married at St Frideswide’s Church in Botley Road in 1941, where his funeral will be held next week, at a date to be fixed.

Digger was immensely proud to be part of Oxford’s motor trade ever since the Second World War. Serving his mechanical apprenticeship at Hartwells in Park End Street, he then spent time in the RAF.

In the late 1950s and early 1960s he had taxis and repairs in Gloucester Green.

He will be remembered by many for his years at Kings Motors in Park End Street where he became prominent with the introduction of Reliant Cars and was recognised nationally when he became President of their owners’ club.

He was always quick to point out that they were not only funny little three-wheelers but also had a sporty side.

In the last 20 years of his career he was with Saint Helens Garage in Abingdon, then a Vauxhall dealer, where he became very well known locally. He seemed to become the face of the garage, sponsoring events with local clubs and schools fetes, and would always take time out after work to visit old customers when they were not well. Although born in Oxford, he was always passionate about his Australian heritage, and managed to visit relatives there twice, both in the 1990s.

He lived for football, having spent years with Woodstock Town and Oxford City, playing on the right wing until aged 50. He loved nothing more than watching all the live games on Sky and was looking forward to the World Cup.

Also in the 1960s, he played darts to a high standard, even reaching the national News Of The World finals in one year Since 1970, he lived in Wootton near Abingdon where most of his relatives live close by.