Peter Jones died aged 68 after suffering a medical episode while driving alongside his wife on the A590 in Cumbria last Saturday.

Despite the best efforts of emergency services, he was pronounced dead at the scene. And since then, hundreds have paid tribute to the ex-fireman who spent large chunks of time giving back to his community.

Radcliffe-born Peter is survived by wife Marian, daughter Melanie and granddaughters Maegan, 14, and 12-year-old Elinor.

Daughter Melanie Booth said: “He was a man with the biggest heart, who would do anything for anybody. He was a big family man who absolutely adored his wife, daughter and granddaughters.

Peter Jones

“He was also very close to his nephew, Dave, with only a few years difference between them.

“My dad inspired Dave to join the fire service and they had such a special bond.

“I had the best childhood with my mum and dad, who ensured that every birthday and Christmas was special.

“My mum and dad always gave us the best family holidays and would take their granddaughters away with them every year - memories that will last forever and will never be forgotten.”

Peter served in the fire service from 1973 until 2003, working his way up to becoming a station commander.

Despite initially pursuing a career in the Royal Navy, his mother ‘had none of it’. He found his calling in the fire service after she refused to sign the consent form.

Upon his retirement, he set up his own fire risk assessment business with his wife. The pair had only just celebrated 48 years of marriage together.

He was also a director at Fortalice refuge since 2015, and had served on its management committee.

Peter Jones

Refuge chief executive Gill Smallwood said: “Peter worked hard both on a strategic level as a board member, but also gave his time as our fire safety expert on a practical level. He was always so popular with staff when delivering fire safety training.

“Peter was also keen to help with fundraising and would often join us at events to support the charity - he was always on hand to help whenever we needed him.

“He was such a great advocate for all the work we do. Peter will be sadly missed not only as a director but as a wonderful friend with a big heart. Our thoughts and prayers are with Peter's family at this sad time.”

He joined the Rotary Club of Bolton in 2004, where he became president - and also served as a magistrate for many years.

Rotarian Ray Jefferson said: “Peter was the kindest of men, always ready to help others and always seeing the best in people. He had a large store of stories which he liked to share, many relating to his time in the fire service - although his memories of childhood and times in the Lake District also featured.

“He could be relied upon to entertain an audience and would lift the spirits of any group fortunate to have him join them.”