THE man who helped thousands of Herefordshire's most successful social events run like clockwork, has died peacefully aged 78.

Known to employees and guests alike for his immaculate appearance and perfectionism, former headwaiter of the Green Dragon Hotel for 35 years, John (Jack) Frayne, died of cancer on November 23.

Son of a headwaiter, Mr Frayne was born in Dublin and, although settling in Herefordshire years ago, he never forgot his Irish heritage.

He was stationed in Madley after joining the RAF as a chef and, after the war, he settled in Hereford with his first wife, Verena Adcocks.

Former colleague, Manuel Balboa, remembered Mr Frayne being 'like a second father' when he arrived in Hereford as a youngster barely speaking any English.

Taking the young man under his wing signified the start of a life-long friendship with Manuel visiting Mr Frayne in hospital until the end.

On his retirement in 1984, Mr Frayne concentrated on his charity work. A life member of the Royal British Legion, he represented the organisation at the Armstice Day Parade and sold poppies.

He was involved with the Royal Antediluvian Order of the Buffaloes and was a life member of the Welsh Club and Railway Club.

Throughout his life Mr Frayne demonstrated a strong Catholic faith, and represented St Francis Xavier Catholic Church during the Pope's visit to Cardiff.

His wife of 20 years, Clare said: "John visited people regularly in their homes, hospitals and hospices in their hours of need and never failed someone he knew by attending their funeral. He was always ready to help family and friends in times of need."

When he became ill himself, his courage did not desert him and he organised his own funeral, the horse drawn carriage and hymns.

"He would even have organised to come to the pub afterwards for a pint of Guinness if he could," said his son Michael.

During the last hours of his life, Irish relatives sang poignant songs from his homeland. "They say the hearing is the last thing to go," said Michael. Looking for something for him to wear on his last journey, his sons found two waiters suits, characteristically neatly pressed and wrapped in plastic.

Mr Frayne leaves his wife Clare, children John, Kevin, Michael, Carmel Jacqueline and Brian and his step-children Brenda and Maureen. His son Vincent predeceased him.