WILTSHIRE Freemasons joined by Rotarians, clients, friends and family paid their respects at the weekend to popular Swindon solicitor Peter Winton, who died last year.

The service held at Christ Church in Swindon’s Old Town was conducted by family friend Rev Dr John Railton and was attended by family and friends of Peter whose practise office was located in Devizes Road.

Peter’s wife Virginia read a moving poem entitled The Ship by Bishop Charles Brent and tributes were given by members of the family, including Peter’s daughter Holly. Peter’s son Luke Winton, a professional musician, performed Claire de la Lune by Debussy.

Family friend Francis Wakem paid a fulsome tribute to Peter, 69, who he first met over 40 years ago as opposing parties at the local magistrates court. Peter was described as a man of enormous integrity, amazing vitality and of distinguished presence.

He was also described as someone who could light up a room with what was said to be an incredible smile.

Peter fought a spirited battle with lung cancer which he thought he had won, but sadly he was told he had inoperable brain tumours and died on December 8.

Peter leaves behind Virginia, his wife of 43 years, daughter Holly and son Luke, their partners Stephen and Indy and grandchildren Phoebe and Toby.

Philip Bullock, head of Wiltshire Freemasons, said “Peter Winton was a truly amazing man, a true gentleman in every respect. He was someone who you could always rely upon.”

especially when something needed to be done. His charity work in the town, especially as father Christmas for the Lions was an activity he undertook wholeheartedly, just as he did with everything with which he was associated”