One of Higham’s best known tradesmen, Mr. Ernest Thompson, died at a Northampton nursing home early on Monday morning. He was aged 49 years and resided at “Hazeldene” Higham Road, Rushden.

Mr. Thompson was taken ill about three weeks before his death, and last Friday he was taken to Northampton in a serious condition. Though he lived in Rushden, Mr. Thompson was regarded as a Higham Ferrers butcher. The business was founded about 50 years ago by his father, who died about eight years ago, when Mr. Thompson took complete charge.

Born in Rushden Mr. Thompson moved with his family to Higham almost immediately afterwards. He was a member of the Higham Ferrers Methodist Church for many years, being chief steward for several years. At one time he served on Higham Ferrers Town Council as a Liberal. There is a widow, Mrs. Hilda Thompson and two daughters, the Misses Joan and Hazel Thompson, are bereaved.

The funeral took place on Thursday afternoon the Rev. Frederick John conducting a service at the Higham Ferrers Methodist Church.