It is with great sadness that Bradbeers announces the death of its former managing director Peter Davies, aged 84.

Peter passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Tuesday afternoon, July 30, after collapsing at Meon Shore beach on the Solent – a place where he loved to be. Family and friends were quickly on hand.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Hazel, and he leaves behind three children, nine grandchildren and many dear friends.

Peter followed his father into the family business Bradbeers in 1957 pursuing a successful career in retail, with his two brothers Trevor and Anthony.

He started working at Bradbeers Eastleigh, experiencing a number of departments including removals and the upholstery workshop. He spent most of his working life at Bradbeers Romsey where he oversaw the rebuilding of the store after the devastating fire of 1963.

The store doubled in size nine years later in 1972. It doubled in size again in 2003, after the purchase of The Dolphin site.

Peter oversaw substantial investment at other sites, including the furniture store at Hedge End and, just recently, the opening of Bradbeers Salisbury in the former Debenhams building.

The proud traditions of 187 years of service, honesty and attention to detail enabled this family-owned business to continue to prosper. It is these very qualities Peter has passed onto his sons Ben, Stephen and Greg, who will continue to take the business forward as a local, independent retailer.

Integral to his business acumen, Peter's defining qualities were kindness and philanthropy. A devoted husband to Hazel, father and grandfather and committed Christian and an inspirational lay-preacher at the United Reformed Church, he delivered sermons at venues around the county and generously supported the building of schools, churches and sports facilities for local communities.

He was a life-long member of Hampshire County Cricket Club, an ardent supporter of Romsey Bowling Club a former treasurer of the Kingsgate Tennis Club, Romsey Rotary Club and Cheltenham Caravan Association.

And then there was gardening... “Garden as though you will live forever” (William Kent).