Bill Burke, the long-time proprietor of A&E Robbins Hardware in Kew, has passed away at the age of 81.

Mr Burke, who lived in East Sheen, was born in Tuam, County Mayo, in 1934.

He came to England in the early 1960s, and soon after met his future wife Annamara.

They married in 1965.

The couple celebrated their Golden Anniversary last year.

In 1975, Mr Burke purchased A&E Robbins Hardware Shop in Station Parade, Kew Gardens, stocking it with items not usually available elsewhere.

When well-known brands of lock changed their design and shape, meaning fitting a new lock would require a carpenter as well as a locksmith, Mr Burke would change the tumblers on the old lock.

However, he did much more than just sell hardware – he also dispensed good advice along with friendly conversation.

He and Annamara ran the business for 33 years until his retirement, when they then moved to East Sheen.

Mr Burke’s warm and generous nature shone in the charitable work he did with St Winifred’s church, in Kew, and with Kew Gardens Rotary.

He is survived by Annamara, and daughters Marleth and Daun.

The funeral will be held todayon Friday, May 27, at Our Lady Queen of Peace in Sheen.