TRIBUTES have been paid to a former mayor of Okehampton who has died at the age of 90.
Walter William John Cornish or 'Bill' to his friends was involved in much that was good in the town, said his friend Mike Wreford.
As a partner in one of Okehampton's oldest businesses W J Cornish and Son the Jewellers, Mr Cornish was a prominent businessman but still found the time to help set up the Oketon Wheelers Cycling Club, the Probus Club and be involved with the British Legion, Rotary Club, Young Conservatives associations, the Scouting organisation, Rifle Club and the Chamber of Trade.
A long term member of Okehampton Town Council, Mr Cornish was mayor in 1960 and was always remembered for departing from the normal procedures and holding a party for the young people after his inaugural ceremony.
He was a great man of the community, said his son William who took over the running of the business some years ago.
The only time Mr Cornish spent away from the business was when he was called up for service during the Second World War. His wife Mavis ran the business and kept it afloat during the war years.
Mr Cornish, who had a passion for dogs, lived with his wife in Station Road. He also leaves two children, William and Julia, and three grandchildren Mark, Justin and Matthew. He had been ill since February and died in Castle Hospital last Thursday.
Friend Mike Wreford, who is a local historian, said Mr Cornish was highly regarded and his death was a sad loss.
The funeral was held in All Saints Church yesterday (Wednesday.)