Warm tributes paid to Brimscombe motorsport enthusiast and author

Kenneth John Chandler, known to most as Ken, died at his home in Walls Quarry on Friday, September 20.

Born in Stroud in June 1939, Ken grew up in Woodchester.

He attended Nailsworth Secondary School before undertaking his National Service in the RAF, during which he was posted to Cyprus.

Upon his return - and having trained as a printer at Arthurs Press in Woodchester - he worked for Downfield Press in Stroud.

He later went on to teach printing as a lecturer at Gloucestershire College of Arts and Technology (now Gloucestershire College).

Ken had a great love of motorsport, born initially from his father taking him to the Nailsworth Ladder to watch cars and motorcycles tackle the famous climb.

He was involved in running a Lotus Seven for three seasons at various circuits.

Over a period of around 20 years, he also set about writing a book to commemorate Stroud cyclecar and motorcycle manufacturer Baughan.

Harry Baughan: A Life of Motor Cycling was published in 2010 after many years of research and hard work, with Ken also giving talks to local groups and societies.

A jazz and history enthusiast, Ken was additionally a keen sportsman, enjoying running, swimming and squash.

He was involved in Stroud Squash Club and Stroud Camera Club.

A highlight of his week in latter years was his Friday night swim with friends at Beaudesert Park School in Minchinhampton.

He ran daily and participated in the Stroud Half Marathon.

He practically lived in his running shorts, only wearing trousers on a few very special occasions.

Ken was a devoted husband to Janet, who he was married to for over 40 years.

Living in Woodchester and then Brimscombe during the two halves of his life, a great personal achievement was his donation of more than 150 pints of blood during his lifetime.

He received a crystal glass decanter in recognition of his contributions from NHS Blood Donation.

A private funeral has been held in line with his wishes.