A FORMER Hereford Times advertising manager described as a charismatic 'antique gentleman' has died aged 89.

Hereford born and bred, Reg Gillard was a well-known figure in the county's church musical circles, as an organiser for amateur football teams as well as the Hereford Times offices.

Born in 1914, Mr Gillard grew up in Guildford Street and went to Scudamore School before attending Hereford High School for Boys.

A man who could 'sell anything to anyone', he joined the Hereford Times in the late 1940s and over the next two decades his distinctive blue mini became a regular sight around town.

He settled in Penn Grove Road with his wife, Diana, and two daughters, Janet and Elisabeth. Mr Gillard immersed himself in his love for music and played the organ in nearly every church in Hereford.

He was also involved in city skittles teams, the Castle Green Bowling Club and as a trustee of the Military Club.

He was a former long-serving officer of the Herefordshire Football League.

Surviving a major cancer operation in the late 1980s gave him at least another 10 years of life although his dear Diana died a decade before him leaving a gaping empty space in his life.

"He did miss her terribly," explained Janet. "They were together for about 43 years and married in 1949. They were a very close couple."

Described by his daughters, as a 'charming, fiercely, independent' man, right up until his final few days, Mr Gillard could be seen catching a bus into Hereford.

Finally reunited with his Diana, after his funeral at Holy Trinity Church on Tuesday, Mr Gillard was buried by her side.

Mr Gillard leaves daughters Janet and Elisabeth, son-in-law, David, and his three grandsons, Mark, David and Ben.