Tributes have been paid to a long-serving family butcher who has died of cancer, aged 67.

Roy Parker owned C and G Parker in Crown Street, Castle Hedingham, which he ran with his wife Jill for 31 years.

Mr and Mrs Parker, of Bayley Street, Castle Hedingham, then set up shop in Bridge Street, Great Yeldham, where they worked for nine years. He retired in 1999 and then helped butchers DR Earey & Son, of Sible Hedingham, and Mark Humphries, of Clare.

Mr Parker's daughter, Vicky Stapleton, said he was a hard-working, loving man who liked classic sports cars and golf. "He was always happy and positive all the way through his illness. He had a sense of humour and a good way with people. Being in business, he was good with people from all walks of life."

Mr Parker is survived by his wife, four children and five grandchildren. His funeral will be held tomorrow at St Nicholas Church, Castle Hedingham.

Published Wednesday, January 19, 2005

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