A PLAQUE was unveiled at a women’s refuge yesterday to remember the contribution and support of Tony Martin.

Tony, who passed away last year age 61, was a long-time supporter of the Swindon Women's Aid refuge as the Zurich Community Foundation's UK manager.

The plaque honoured his commitment by renaming the living area the Tony Martin Lounge.

Nicky Alberry, high sheriff of Wiltshire and chair of the board of trustees of Swindon Women’s Aid, said: “Tony was a fantastic supporter of Swindon Women’s Aid and he did so much to help us keep this building going, in terms of the volunteering and projects that he organised.

“He came at Christmas with presents for the children, and at Easter we always had car loads of Easter eggs which he managed to arrange. He was just incredible thoughtful and kind. He was a very lovely man and we’ll miss him a lot.”

Tony’s sister, Annie Adams, also attended the ceremony alongside Robert Buckland MP, and friends and colleagues from Zurich Community Trust.

Annie told the Advertiser: “Tony loved this charity. You could tell whenever he spoke about it, he was passionate. It is absolutely wonderful for them to honour him in this way and I think he would be overwhelmed by it.

“It was one of the charities that was so very close to his heart, he just loved coming out here and seeing everybody and meeting the people and he was just full of praise for everyone he met here.”

Volunteers from Zurich were also there while helping to refurbish bedrooms and work on the gardens at the refuge.

Jane Fox, who worked with Tony for 15 years and is the current Community Foundation volunteering manager for Zurich, said: “Not only was he the most amazing work colleague and most amazing friend. He supported so many charities, but he also supported the people around him.

“He was such a genuine guy and I now have taken on the responsibility and gauntlet as volunteer manager. I know I’m never going to step into his shoes but I have learnt a lot from him.”

Allwyn Kelly, manager of the refuge in West Swindon, added: “It was such an important day for us because Swindon Women’s Aid wanted to acknowledge the vital support that Tony provided over a number of years.

"Not only was he a great supporter but he was true friend and he’s helped us changed so many women’s lives and he will be sorely missed. Having the lounge named after him will always mean he remains."