Wistaston resident Laurence Ronald Perry, known affectionately to many as "Lol," has passed away at the age of 85.

Born in 1940, Laurence spent many happy years living on Westfield Drive, where he became a familiar and friendly presence within the village.

He shared 61 devoted years of marriage with his beloved wife Margaret and was a much-loved father and father-in-law to James and Angela, and Beth and Ian.

A cherished grandad and great-grandad to Oliver, William, Joe, Charlie, Edgar, Monte, Arthur and Harry, Laurence will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him.

At Christmas time, Laurence brought particular joy to neighbours and passers-by with his much-anticipated festive light display, which brightened not only his front garden, but also the public green in front of his home.

Before his retirement, Laurence was a well-known and respected greengrocer, serving customers across Nantwich, Crewe and the surrounding areas.

At Christmas time, Laurence brought particular joy to neighbours and passers-by with his much-anticipated festive light display on Westfield Drive (Photo: Supplied).

He took great pride in offering quality produce at fair prices and was remembered just as much for his warmth, kindness and friendly conversation as for his trade.

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Away from work, Laurence found happiness in life's simple pleasures. He loved walking through local woodland with dogs, took enormous pride in his home and was a keen gardener.

Tending his garden brought him great contentment, and it was a ritual he enjoyed daily, keeping it immaculate throughout the year.

Laurence's gentle sense of humour was reflected in his famous collection of garden gnomes, which stood proudly outside his house year-round and became a much-loved talking point within the community.

In 2018, those same gnomes unexpectedly brought Laurence national, and even international attention, when a threatened removal by Cheshire East Council made headlines across the UK and beyond, featuring on the BBC and in newspapers as far afield as India and the United States.

Throughout it all, Laurence remained good-humoured and modest, taking the attention in his stride and staying true to the man his neighbours knew and loved.

Above all, Laurence will be remembered as a friend to all - kind, welcoming and quietly generous with his time and warmth.

Laurence's funeral will take place on Friday 20 February at 12.15pm at Crewe Crematorium. Family flowers only, with donations if desired in support of St Luke's Hospice.

All enquiries to A W Burrows & Son, Independent Family Funeral Directors, Swanley, Nantwich, CW5 8QB. Telephone: 01270 524243.

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