Popular villager was a ‘true gentleman’

TADS theatre group life vice president Don Harper, 80, died earlier this month after a year-long battle with cancer.

A consultant with Blackpool-based Best Plate until his diagnosis, he was a member of the village tennis club for more than 40 years and served as a committee member of Bedfordshire Lawn Tennis Association.

His daughter Debbie George, 55, said: “Dad was hardworking but loved to socialise. He enjoyed good food and dining out.

“He’s been described as a true gentleman, a lovely man who set high standards for work colleagues and taught his children respect, etiquette and good manners.

“He was also a very kind, caring thoughtful and generous person who was always there to support his family.”

Don leaves a wife, Molly, five children, 10 grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

His funeral takes place at 2.30pm on Tuesday (October 30) at the Vale Crematorium. No flowers but donations to www.memorygiving.com/donaldsydneyharper