A POPULAR pub landlord has been described as a‘hardworking, generous, stubborn and funny man’ following his death.

Richard John Sweet, known locally as John Sweet, ran the Railway Inn in Station Road, Cam for 20 years, handing over the reins to his daughter and son-in-law when his health began to deteriorate four years ago.

John, who was born in Worcester in 1943 and grew up in Dursley, died at home with his loving family at his bedside on Monday, March 25.

His daughter Sharon said: “He will be sadly missed by all that knew him.”

He leaves behind wife Lucy, children Sharon, Kevin and Kay, plus six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

John attended Dursley Grammar School where he excelled at all sports.

After leaving school he joined the Gloucester Fire and Rescue Service and was stationed in Stroud and Gloucester, whilst also serving as a retained firefighter in Dursley.

He was presented with a long service plaque on retiring at the age of 50 from Gloucester Fire Station, where they gave him a great send off.

He continued with his love for sport, playing rugby league, cricket for Dursley and also football for Cam Bulldogs.

John also managed to find the time to form a band with friends. Known as the Key Sounds, the group played in and around Dursley and in the Gloucester area at many venues.

During the 1980s he helped run Dursley Cricket Club, and was well known for playing crib, dominoes and darts in all the local pubs.

His passion for golf took over in his later years. He played most days, up at Stinchcombe, and was very proud at becoming captain of the golf club.

He continued to play until the last two years of his life, until ill health meant that he had to hang up his clubs.

The last two years have been especially hard for John and his family. During that time he has been looked after at home by his daughter Kay and wife Lucy.

John’s funeral will take place on Friday, April 12 at St Bartholomew’s in Cam at 12.30pm, followed by cremation at Gloucester Crematorium.

Afterwards there will be a celebration of his life at the Railway Inn.

“We would like to thank everyone for their overwhelming love and support, and also the carers and nurses that helped to look after him,” said Sharon.

“It would be lovely if everyone who knew him or knew of him would come and help us celebrate his life on Friday, April 12.”