Sadness at death of Thame Racquet's boss

Richard Martin’s funeral was held on Thursday at St Mary’s Church in Thame.

Mr Martin passed away on Saturday, February 27 with his wife Rosy and family by his side.

Simon Martin, and Sue Martin-Downhill, his son and daughter in law, said: “Richard was an extremely honourable and hard working man, a wonderful husband, great grandpa and supportive dad.

“He was an avid Crystal Palace supporter and sports fan.

“Richard’s dedication to the family business survived the recent recessions, and continues to provide a valuable service to the fitness and health of the people of Thame. He will be sorely missed.”

Zoe and Holly, Mr Martin’s granddaughters added: “We already miss grandpa terribly. He was our hero.

“He always had time to talk to his little princess and scallywag.”

Claire Finch, a personal trainer who worked with Mr Martin for 17 years, said: “Richard was a great boss, and more importantly a great friend, giving me lots of valuable advice over the years.

“I will miss our chats over a cup of tea and his stories of ‘when he was a boy’, which he often used to say as a joke because in his words it was ‘what old farts were supposed to say’.

“I will miss him hugely.”

The family would like to thank Dr Dan Faller at The Rycote Practice and the cancer care teams at John Radcliffe and Churchill hospitals.