Family, countless friends in golfing, business and other circles heard with deep regret of the death, which occurred suddenly at his home on Tuesday last week, of Mr Edward Marsden Daniel, Alkerton, Gwbert, aged 71.

A native of Cardigan, he ran the T M Daniel garage business in Priory Street for 41 years until his retirement in 1998, when employee Peter Williams took over the reins.

His passing brings to an end the T M Daniel connection in Cardigan, which began when his grandfather opened a shop in High Street in the 1880's.

During his early years he was an apprentice with the Austin car company in Birmingham, working on the old A30 car. Some years later he acquired one of the cars, and delighted in exhibiting the vehicle during the annual Barley Saturday parade and at vintage shows in the area.

A stalwart of Cardigan Golf Club he was a past captain and president, and a member for more than 60 years.

Of a quiet, kind and friendly disposition Mr Daniel was held in the very highest esteem by a whole host of friends from all walks of life.

Paying tribute to him close friend and past president and captain of the golf club Gerwyn Morgan said: "Not only was Edward highly respected as a businessman in Cardigan, but was a friend to everybody he met.

"The area will be the poorer for his passing, and he will be greatly missed by his family, friends and acquaintances," he said.

Mr Daniel leaves his wife Shirley, sons John of Llandrindod Wells, Ian of Bedford, daughter-in-law Louise, grandsons Ryan Owen and Ieuan, sister-in-law Enid and brother-in-law John to whom sympathy is extended.

His standing in the community was borne out by the large and representative gathering at his funeral on Friday when a service was held at Babell Chapel, Cilgerran.

There were family flowers only, but donations if desired, to the British Heart Foundation, being kindly received by Mr Gerwyn Morgan, Muriau Gwyn, Beulah. The funeral arrangements were carried out with dignity by Colin Phillips of Jenkins & Phillips, Funeral Directors, Hyfrydle, Gwbert Road, Cardigan