A Weston hotelier has died at the age of 89.
John Smith founded Smiths Hotel on the seafront and was a key player in the town's tourism sector.
His family said: "He moved to Weston with his parents when they were bombed out of London and their bakery businesses.
"After his national service was complete, he represented his squadron and competed at distant shooting at Bisley Shooting Ground, winning numerous medals and placards, notably best distant shot in the army 1948-49. He also trained in Switzerland before joining the new family enterprise the Mentone Hotel on the seafront at Weston with his new bride Umberta.
"John made Smiths Hotel what it is today."
Mr Smith, who died on July 15, was also at one time president of the Hotels & Restaurant Association.
His funeral will take place at Weston Crematorium on Monday at 12.30pm. The family has asked for donations to Cancer Research UK to be made through The Elms Funeral Directors.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here