A CARING grandfather who worked with the Bolton Lions organisation helping people across the borough for 45 years has died suddenly at his home.

Mr Bill Laithwaite had been to a meeting of the Lions before returning to his home in Astley Bridge where he died. He was 79.

Mr Laithwaite was twice president of the well-known service organisation that has raised money to help thousands of local people.

He was particularly instrumental in setting up and organising the Caring Christmas Appeal with the Bolton News. This annually distributes hundreds of children’s gifts to families who struggle to afford them.

Mr Laithwaite and his wife Pam joined fellow Lions and their wives each year to ensure no family referred to them went without gifts. He even delivered presents himself on Christmas Eve.

A dedicated family man, he is survived by his wife, son Peter and wife Andrea and their children Harry and Olivia and daughter Joanne and her husband Steve and their son Thomas.

Peter Laithwaite said: “We had the best family upbringing with great traditional family values, fabulous holidays, celebrations and fun times. This loss will leave a big hole in our family.”

The current Bolton Lions’ president Mr Jeff Hartley stated: “Bill was a kind and considerate man who was always there to support me as a fellow Lion when I needed help and advice. He will be truly and sadly missed at Bolton Lions Club.”

Before retirement, Mr Laithwaite had worked for local steel stockholders Markland Scowcroft in a career spanning 35 years that saw him rise through the company.

The funeral will be held on Friday at St Paul’s Church, Astley Bridge at 10.45am followed by interment at Overdale at 11.45am. There will be family flowers only with donations to Bolton Lions.