The community of Bathwick has been left saddened after the death of a much-loved shopkeeper.

Ken Smith, who owned Bathwick Stores for more than 20 years, died last week after a short battle against cancer.

The 70-year-old had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer earlier this year and was given three years to live after he was told it was inoperable.

In May, he said he hoped to prove doctors wrong.

But in the last few months his health deteriorated and the former milkman died while he was staying with friends in Bathwick.

Mr Smith retired from his shop in May to spend more time with his family and enjoy what time he had left with them.

In June Mr Smith and his son Stephen travelled to Thailand to see his sister-in-law.

His 31-year-old son said Mr Smith had planned a visit for some time after his brother also died from pancreatic cancer a number of years ago and when he closed the shop, finally made the trip.

Stephen said his dad had played a big role in the community and would be sorely missed.

He said: "He was just such a part of the Bathwick Hill community for over 20 years.

"He loved to run his shop and people will remember him for this."

In his last few years at the shop, the grandfather of four had fought in vain to try to prevent a Tesco Express store from being built nearby.

But the firm, which had its scheme twice refused by council planners, eventually opened last year.

Stephen said: "Since Tesco was built next door unfortunately he couldn't battle on through."

The chairman of Bathwick Residents' Association Colin Martin, who has known Mr Smith for the past 10 years, said: "I just found him a very good bloke and he ran a very good shop.

"It was more than a shop, it was a centre of local interest.

"People used to meet there and kids used to go in there and get their sweets.

"Everyone will miss the social atmosphere of the shop.

"He would go out of his way to get something for people."

Mr Martin also worked closely with Mr Smith to try to prevent Tesco from moving in next door.

Mr Smith, who also had a stepson, had been married to his third wife for 15 years.

He formerly worked as a milkman and also in the local post office before moving to the store.

He enjoyed his time in the shop and said he was sad to leave when he retired earlier this year.

His funeral will take place on Wednesday, September 16 from 12.30pm at Bathwick St Mary's Church in Darlington Street.

Anyone who knew Mr Smith is welcome to attend the service.