AN ANDOVER family is mourning the death of Patrick 'Pat' Ginger, who has died at the age of 85.

Pat began his career on January 11, 1954, working as an apprentice for the Andover Advertiser. He worked in the Linotype department as a loyal employee until he was made redundant in 1999.

Whilst working at the Advertiser, Pat also took a job as a 'pot man' at the then-named, Pig and Whistle pub in Hatherden, now known as The Hare and Hounds.

READ MORE: Andover death notices and funeral announcements from the Andover Advertiser

Following his redundancy, Pat began a job working in the postroom at the TSB in Charlton Place before his retirement.

Pat's daughter Emma said he was a 'grafter' and decided to start selling Avon products in his retirement as he 'couldn't do nothing'. Emma added that he was 'probably the only male Avon representative in Andover'.

At Portway School, Pat began taking on the role of a lunchtime assistant.

He was born in Hounslow but later moved to Andover, where his family now lives.

Pat died on Saturday, March 30, at the age of 85 and is remembered by his brother Tony, daughter Emma, son Simon, his grandchildren and his great-grandchildren.

Emma remembers her dad as a man who 'always had a story to share, a joke to tell and was adored by all'.

She said: "Throughout his career, he has touched the lives of many and all who knew him said if everyone in the world was like him then the world would be a better place.

"Reunited with his beloved mum Doris, he will be dearly missed every day."