TONY Lewington, who worked in advertising throughout his career and lived with his family in Congresbury, died on January 5, aged 85. Born in East Ham, London, he was educated locally and at 14, he went to East Ham Technical College to study art.

He went into commercial art and worked all his life, apart from Army service, for a London advertising agency.

During the Second World War, he served in the Royal Engineers, travelling to the Far East, including India and Indonesia, and it was during this time that he bought his first camera, which led to a lifelong passion for photography.

In 1953, he met Maureen at a dance and two years later they married before buying their first home in Upminster.

Tony's work brought him to Bristol in 1966 and the couple moved to Congresbury with their four children. Two years later the family was complete when Patrick was born.

Always interested in art, Tony joined Congresbury Theatre and Arts Group, running the art section until the group closed in the 1970s.

Maureen joined the Congresbury WI, which then ran a crèche, and began a 40-year connection with Congresbury Singers when the choir started.

Tony continued his interest in photography, joining Backwell Camera Club and entering photographic competitions all over the country.

He specialised in black and white pictures, which frequently appeared, and won prizes, in village flower shows.

In retirement Tony had time to develop his love of woodwork, clay modelling and gardening.

Maureen and Tony celebrated their golden wedding in 2005 with a memorable trip to India.

He was described by many friends and neighbours as a quiet, thoughtful, kind and gentle man.

The funeral was held at Weston Crematorium.