TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular former pub landlord in Andover who died this week aged 63.

Richard Pitcher was landlord of the Lardicake in Adelaide Road from 2001 and ran it up until July last year when he sold the pub due to ill health.

In a statement his family said: “He was a very special man, an inspiration to lots of people.

“He put everyone else before him and would be happy to go without to ensure his family were OK.”

Born on 25 March 1952 in Dover, Mr Pitcher joined the Army at the age of 17, was posted to British Honduras and spent time in Belize before going to Middle Wallop as a helicopter mechanic with REME.

He later became a transport manager at Ken White Distribution Ltd, but his dream was to own his own pub and in 2001 it became a reality when he took over the Lardicake.

Under his guidance the Lardicake received good write ups from CAMRA for its ale and was featured in the Good Beer Guide.

Mr Pitcher, who always wore a shirt and smart trousers, developed a reputation for helping his regulars in any way he could.

He took just one week off a year and spent it in his favourite place, Majorca, which is also where he took all of his family for his 60th birthday.

After being diagnosed with lung and spine cancer eight months ago, he travelled in his friend’s camper van to Deal, visited his uncle’s war grave in France, and spent a weekend with his family in a log cabin.

Just four weeks ago he went to Spain for a long weekend with two friends and his wife.

Mr Pitcher leaves Christine, his wife of 36 years, two daughters, one son and two grandsons.

The funeral takes place on Friday, 17 April at Basingstoke crematorium at 12:30pm; all are welcome.

A reception will take place at the Lardicake afterwards.

Family flowers only; donations to the Countess of Brecknock.