Ross-on-Wye has lost a beloved hotelier.

Roger Wynn truly loved Herefordshire and the country life and never wanted to return to London after seeing how pleasant Ross life was. Roger had run the Wilton Hotel with his wife Helen since they bought the business in 2000.

Helen told the Gazette: “He was just such an incredible man, anyone who knew him, loved him.”

Roger had become well acquainted with the Herefordshire culture, and decided to spend the later chapters of his life here.

The grounds of the hotel were a beautiful sight thanks to Roger’s green fingers. He loved being out in the garden, making it beautiful for others to see, he loved sitting out on the riverbank enjoying the natural beauty of the county. He enjoyed keeping a good wine cellar, which delighted many of the hotel’s guest, Roger and Helen worked with Tanners in Hereford to help furnish the cellar with the quality wine. Roger and Helen focused on buying local, hiring local, and supporting the local economy—which was likely a key factor in the hotel winning so many awards.

Roger went from being at bell boy at 16 in London, up to head concierge, before getting head hunted for the Shangri-La, Hong Kong—where he was responsible for around 80 staff. Returning to the UK he was equipped with the experience to develop a well-run hotel, which would provide a wonderful stay for thousands of guests.

When the couple bought the hotel 20 years ago it was quite run down, Roger with the help of his wife built it up to become a jewel of the Wye Valley, winning two rosettes and a number of awards. There was plenty of repeat business and the dedicated staff kept the standards high.

A thanksgiving for Roger will be taking place at St Mary’s Church on Monday, May 16. Revd Tiffany Jackson will be conducting the service. A plaque will also be placed in the garden of remembrance for him, which is planned later in the year, after his cremation.

Rather than flowers, Helen has kindly asked for donations to St Michael’s Hospice and Marie Curie.