GEORGE Dumbleton, who died aged 87, spent much of his life devoted to caring for his wife, Cicely.

Mr Dumbleton, who was born in Wendlebury and lived there all his life, followed his father Albert's footsteps by running the family joinery firm.

Mr Dumbleton handed over Dumbleton and Son, which began in 1850, to his son, George.

Before going in to the family business as a carpenter, joiner, wheelwright and undertaker, Mr Dumbleton attended Bicester County School.

He served with 232 Squadron in the RAF during the Second World War, where he saw active service in North Africa before taking part in the landings in Sicily, Italy and Frejus, south of France.

In 1945, he returned to Wendlebury and married Cicely. They had three children - Alistair, twins George and Linda. Cicely died two years ago, aged 88.

George Jnr, 53, of Priory Close, Bicester, said: "My father was devoted to my mother when she was ill."

Mr Dumbleton was a keen sportsman and played for Chesterton and Wendlebury Football team, winning the Jersey Cup in 1946.

He served as chairman of Wendlebury Parish Council and was president of Bicester Rifle Club, and represented Oxfordshire at both rifle and pistol shooting.

After handing over the family business to George Jnr, he was able to see his grandson, Richard, 25, become the fifth generation to follow in the family footsteps.

Mr Dumbleton's funeral is at Wendlebury Christ Church, 1pm, on August 28.