A HISTORY enthusiast who “had time for everyone” has died at the age of 66.

David Possee, of Stubbs Lane, Braintree, was a grandfather of four who had a particular interest in the history of Braintree, where he lived since coming to the town in 1944.

He had a number of history books published, and most recently had been working on one about Alec Hunter Humanities College, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, and another about the people who used to live in Cressing Road – Mr Possee’s former address.

His wife Janet, 64, believed he had always had a love of history, though it really took off in the late Nineties after he lost his full-time job.

She said: “It snowballed and he went to all sorts of groups. He went all over Essex and Suffolk.”

Mr Possee, an accountant by trade, had been part of Braintree and Bocking History Society, and had also been involved with Braintree District Museum.

He gave talks on local history and encouraged others at a course on the subject at Alec Hunter, Stubbs Lane, where he met Bernie Godfrey, who worked with him on Cycle of Events: The Story of Lake & Elliot.

His son Simon, 34, of Farthing Close, Braintree, said: “He just had a real lust for life, and everything he did, he did with a lot of enthusiasm.

“Everyone, whoever they were, he treated them just the same, and you could not help but like him.”

Mrs Possee added: “He really did have a care for people and loved to help people, and I have been thinking, I just don’t know how he did it.

“He did not neglect me, the children, the grandchildren, and he managed to help the whole world and his neighbour”.

The father-of-three also had an interest in steam trains and Zeppelin airships, and had been involved with the Braintree and Bocking Community Centre for many years.

He died from a heart attack at Broomfield Hospital, in Chelmsford, on August 16.

Mr Possee also leaves daughters Sarah Evans and Rachel Possee, and grandchildren Joshua, Olivia, Lucy and Alice.

His funeral takes place on September 1.