TRIBUTES have been paid to a ‘true gentleman’ and co-founder of a social supermarket who has died at the age of 88.

Bill Deans founded charity Poole Waste Not Want Not alongside Elaine Lawford.

Bill was born in Howood, near Paisley in Scotland, and grew up in Glasgow.

He became an apprentice in engineering and worked on the Glasgow docks, before getting a job at Caterpillar which took him to Windsor, where he played for Windsor and Eton football club.

Bill spent 40 years in Africa, as, through his work, he got the opportunity to move to Zambia, where he spent 10 years before moving to Zimbabwe for 30 years.

He returned to the UK in 2005 and met Elaine in 2007.

The pair went on to establish Poole Waste Not Want Not in 2015 from their local church, aiming to support those in food poverty.

The pair dedicated a day a week to the cause, and as demand grew, they recognised the need for more space and expanded support beyond food provision.

They moved into a shop in Poole High Street, creating the area’s first social supermarket, where the charity has stayed and grown since.

Elaine said: “Bill was my rock for 17 years and we spent a life full of love, fun, laughter and caring for each other - wonderful memories.

“He was a true gentleman with a twinkle in his eye, a smile and sincerity that not only I will miss but so many in the community in Poole.”

The charity has gone from strength to strength, opening a community café and offering more and more support beyond food, under the management of Erika Sloper.

Bournemouth Echo:

Erika said: “Elaine and Bill, an incredible duo. Elaine's vision led the way, while Bill provided unwavering support “Her Rock.” Together they built something truly remarkable, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire us all.

“His proud Scottish humour and his hearty laughter, with a twinkle in his eye no longer with us, but his spirit will live on within our community hub.

“Sleep tight, Bill. Your job is done. It’s now time to rest, knowing that your legacy lives on.”

Bill had two children and four grandchildren. He was a Freemason for 50 years and loved watching football and sport, while also being a member of Friends of Poole Park.

As a true Scotsman, he also loved drinking whisky.

Bill died on January 24.

A service will be held to celebrate Bill’s life at Skinner Street United Reform Church on Monday, February 26, before his cremation at Bournemouth Crematorium and a reception at the Freemasons Hall in Bournemouth.