VOLUNTEERS have helped redecorate the Ostler Inn at Uffculme following the death in early February of young co-landlord James Stimson.

The well-known villager, who ran the pub with his father Simon, died suddenly a few days before his 35th birthday.

Villager Jim Clancy said: “Many were left in shock but out of adversity came several offers of help and support to the family.”

One was from Jack Wellman, a young painter and decorator in the process of starting up his own business.

He went to the pub one evening and said he would like to offer his services free of charge in James’s memory. Simon accepted and within a few weeks a substantial team of volunteers offered to help Jack redecorate.

Over three days 18 people contributed to painting and cleaning the pub’s interior in colours chosen by James’s widow, Sarah. By the time the finishing touches had been applied the pub had been transformed.

Simon was very touched by Jack’s initial offer and the finished results. “The pub looks fabulous,” he said.

“I’d like to thank Jack and his team of volunteers, and personally wish him well in his new venture. James would have been very touched by this I’m sure.”