A CELEBRATION is planned next month of the life of well-known Wellingtonian and sportsman Andy Buttle.

Andrew Randolph Sibley Buttle died recently after a short illness, aged 79.

His family said all would be welcome to attend the celebration in the Cleve Hotel from 3 pm on Friday, May 8.

Mr Buttle is survived by his wife of 57 years, Susan, four sons Nicholas, Paul, Sean, and Jamie, and grandchildren Samuel, Constance, Emily, Grace, Elena, Charlotte, Thomas, and Ryan.

Born in Wellington Maternity Home, he attended Corams Lane and Court Fields schools, and Bridgwater College.

A strong sportsman, he achieved county honours at school representing Somerset at athletics and football, receiving various accolades, and also played football for Wellington.

On leaving education, he became a SWEB electrician, but his love for lorry driving saw him go on to work with quarrying firm ECC, Wellington/Steetley Brickworks, Whitbread Plc, and Ready Mixed Concrete Ltd.

In the late 1970s he was a founder-member and manager of Rockwell Green men’s football club, based in the War Memorial Institute club, who competed and won many honours in the Taunton Sunday Football League.

The then-thriving club went on to field more adult teams and start a youth section for the many budding players and their families in the town.

A keen cricketer for Steetley Brickworks, Mr Buttle enjoyed the camaraderie of the Wellington Evening Cricket League in which many local companies and teams participated.

He had a passion for motorcycles and had various bikes through the ages.

Mr Buttle was a devoted husband and family man, proud of his five sons, eight grandchildren, and extended family.

His son Nick said: “Dad loved to support the family in everything they did, especially when we were involved with sports such as football, rugby, and equestrian events.

“He would always be there, cheering us on.”