Prominent Wallingford businessman and member of the Tappins Coach family, Bill Tappin, has died in Wallingford Hospital at the age of 96.

He was born at The Crown Inn, Finstock, in 1911, but moved to be near relatives in Wallingford when his father, Tom Tappin, enlisted in the army during the First World War.

His father started up a transport business after the war which developed into Tappins Coaches.

Mr Tappin worked in Pettits department store until 1930 but then joined the family firm with his brother Tom.

In 1938 he married his wife Nancy and the couple went on to have two children, Jenny and Robert.

He was a founder member of Wallingford Camera Club, where he was treasurer for 20 years and was a founder member of Wallingford Rotary.

His proudest achievement was his part in the launch and running of the Wallingford Coach for the Disabled, the Elizabeth coach, which takes people and clubs on outings and holidays. Tappins Coaches still services the coach.

He continued to drive for the Wallingford Volunteers until he was 80, and was a keen glass engraver after taking up the hobby following his retirement.

His daughter Jenny Jeskins said: "He was a Wallingford man through and through.

"He lived a long and happy life and enjoyed what he did, whether it was working on the coaches or spending time with his family."

Mr Tappin passed away on Monday March 3.

He is survived by his wife Nancy, 93, and his two children.