Tributes to much-loved Thornbury shop owner

Melvyn Green - who died at the age 77 on March 13 - was well-known for running home appliance repair shop The Vac Centre.

He first opened the business in 1974 after going self-employed and sold and repaired vacuum cleaners, washing machines and dishwashers.

In a statement his family have described him as a “kind” and “generous” man who always “had a smile on his face”.

Melvyn - also known as Melvin and Mel - was also a keen volunteer in the community. 

He was a leader at Thornbury Youth Club teaching woodworking skills, a cub master and also helped with Thornbury Christmas Lights Association for many years.

His company - which was originally called Green and Burton - first launched in the Old Malthouse on Quaker Lane, as well as having a showroom in St Mary’s street.

The business then moved to Short Way industrial estate before settling in The Plain in 2013 before eventually closing in 2018. 

Melvyn was born in Leicester in 1946 and was one of seven children to George and Elizabeth Green.

While working as an electrical engineer in the southwest, he eventually met his future wife Lynne who he was happily married to for 50 years.

Tributes have been paid to Melvyn Green who used to run The Vac Centre in Thornbury (Image: Family photo)

They have five children together: Wayne, Nick, Mark, Simon, and Melissa. 

They also have seven grandchildren: Morgan, Hollie, Liberty, Madison, Oakley, Caida, and Joseph.

Melvyn's funeral is due to take place at Memorial Woodlands in Earthcott Green at 10am on Monday, April 8. 

All who knew Melvyn are invited to attend. 

His family said: “The family would like to thank you all for your kind and thoughtful wishes.

“Mel was a kind and generous man and would do anything for anyone, he always had a smile on his face.

“He will be greatly missed by his wife and family, as well as those who knew him."