JIM Shotton Jones was born on April 6, 1927 in Shorncliffe, Kent. After attending the Duke of York Army Boarding School in Dover, he joined the Army in 1942, at the age 15. Later he became a mechanic with the REME and had eight postings to the Far East during his military career.

Jim met his future wife Barbara at the Queen’s Coronation. The couple married in March 1954 and were blessed with two sons.

After leaving the Army and moving to Christchurch he took up employment with the MOD and later as Twynham Compre-hensive school caretaker.

Jim was promoted to East Dorset supervisor caretaker before being made responsible for the entire county until his retirement in 1993.

He helped run the 1st Christchurch Scout Group and was involved in the gang shows in the late 1970s.

Jim was asked if he would become a local magistrate, a role commanding great respect. From the late 1960s to the time of his passing the father-of-two was heavily involved in most aspects of church life within Christchurch Priory including the 900 years’ celebrations.

Jim drove patients to and from the Macmillan unit in Christchurch and, until failing health and age took their toll, he and Barbara held 27 open garden parties for various good causes. After retiring, Jim joined the Twynham Probus Club where he enjoyed good company.

Over the Christmas period he became ill and spent five weeks at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital where he passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 9.