Axminster says final farewell to much-loved resident

Axminster turned out in force to say goodbye to much-loved resident Richard Lambert on Tuesday.

Richard, a well-known character around Axminster who was very much involved in community life, sadly died in August after being diagnosed with a brain tumour just three months earlier.

His funeral service was held on Tuesday afternoon and, while only a small number of people could attend the service due to COVID-19 regulations, a large crowd gathered on the Minster Green and in Trinity Square to pay their respects.

Richard was heavily involved in Axminster Young Farmers and Axminster Carnival, having been a member of the now defunct Minister Carnival Club and holding popular discos in the square on carnival night. He was also a member of Domino Carnival Club in Chard and Gemini Carnival Club in Ilminster.

As well as carnival, his other love was trucking, always taking part in the Devon Truck Show as well as running his own logistics company.

Richard was always happy to help the Axminster community, regularly clearing snow and gritting roads during the winter months, and helping others out however he could.

In a final farewell to the town, Richard's coffin was placed on a decorated trailer and pulled by tractor around the town ahead of his funeral service.

Two Aardvark trucks, which Richard drove, were also parked in Trinity Square, one decorated with photos of Richard.

An online fundraising appeal has now been launched in Richard's memory, with the aim of raising £10,000 for his family and Axminster and Seaton Hospital League of Friends Hospicecare@Home, which his friends and family said was hugely supportive during his final days.

You can donate to the appeal by visiting the JustGiving website.