The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
A pub landlord and retained firefighter of 42 years has died.
Tributes have been paid to Nigel Woods who passed away aged 70 on Wednesday, April 22 after a short battle with cancer.
Most recently he’d taken on the running of The Lincolnshire Poacher pub in Spalding with grandson Konner.
But before that he was well know as a firefighter while also working full time at Bakkavor.
Konner said: “Our favourite memories of Grandad’s success were from his time in the fire brigade.
“There were many funny stories he told about his time with them.
“Once a police car hit a fire engine and there was also the time he rescued a young boy from locked gates by risking his life.
“We decided to open the pub as we both wanted a project and family business together,” Konner continued.
“Working alongside him in the pub has given me some very treasured memories.”
Nigel, who lived in Malvern Avenue in Spalding for most of his life, went every week to watch his beloved Peterborough United. He also ran the Hart-Marler Pool League and loved going swimming every morning at the Castle Sports Complex.
He leaves behind wife Sandra, children and grand children.
Konner said: “He was a very honest person and a grumpy grandad, but as a family, we’re all very proud of him.
“Grandad thoroughly enjoyed his involvement with The Poacher and I will continue to make him proud with continued success.”
The funeral is set to be on May 27 at 2pm and the family hope a video link will be available.
