Peter Way died in Poole General Hospital on 6 February 2015, aged 86.

Peter was born in 1929 into a family with strong roots in Bournemouth. His father was Norman Way, a prominent Methodist who officiated at the highest levels as a football referee. Like his father, Peter worked in the legal profession.

Outside the law he had many and varied interests. He was a fine athlete, particularly in the sprint. He was a highly accomplished ballroom dancer, achieving the top rankings. He was also a fully qualified football referee.

Peter was a keen golfer, a member of Broadstone Golf Club and latterly Bulbury Woods Golf Club.

He gave much time and commitment to public service. He was appointed a Justice of the Peace and eventually became Chairman of the Bournemouth Bench. He also served on the Dorset County Police Committee and as a trustee of the local Red Cross.

He was prominent in Freemasonry and was a member, and Worshipful Master, of the Lodge of Amity Number 137 in Poole, the oldest lodge in Dorset and one of the oldest in the country, and subsequently achieved Provincial rank within the Craft.

He was a diligent and trusted legal advisor, working in Southbourne, Poole and lastly in Broadstone. He specialised in conveyancing and his clients included the late Harry J Palmer who from modest beginnings built up a substantial property business and estate agency.

Peter was a great family man and very proud of his family. He leaves a son and a daughter, four grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

He was married to Joyce, whom he met through the Victoria Park Methodist Church, for 64 years, and she survives him.

Members of his family, and friends and well-wishers, gathered at the Broadstone Crematorium for his Memorial Service which was followed by a reception at the Masonic Temple in Poole.

Peter was always impeccably dressed and courteous, a real gentleman; he will be greatly missed by many.