Friends, family, and colleagues past and present gathered at Abbotsfield Funeral Directors on Wednesday, July 31st to celebrate the end of an era for Alan Blomfield.

Alan, who lives in Ross-on-Wye, has enjoyed a 20 year career at Abbotsfield Funeral Directors.

Long time colleague, Jo Gardiner, said: “You were a knowledgable, hard working team player who did so much for the community. Thank you for your love, support and friendship.”

Although Alan’s last two decades have been spent with Abbottsfield Funeral Directors, he originally began his career with the airforce in 1954, where he stayed for three years.

He joined the police force in 1958, and was appointed Her Majesty’s Coroner’s Officer, where Alan said he gained a lot of experience with death. After some years with Herefordshire Council, he joined Abbotsfield in 1999.

Alan’s friends laughed through tearful goodbyes as memories of first days and funny moments were recalled. He said: “I have enjoyed every minute of being here.”

His former colleagues wished him a wonderful retirement with his wife, Margaret, who previously worked at John Kyrle High School. The couple will be celebrating 60 years of marriage later this year.See this week’s paper for more stories like this, available in shops and as a Digital Edition now.