Tribute paid to rugby-loving stalwart of Herefordshire town

The rugby-loving former maths teacher and RAF education officer put his energy into a variety of community causes after moving to Leominster with his wife Jan in 1999.

The couple moved from Lancashire to run a bed and breakfast guest house in Barons Cross Road and soon became immersed in community activity.

For 20 years Les Hardy was the driving force behind the Leominster Resource Centre, a community printing facility, and was noted for his skill and good humour in managing volunteers.

At various times over the years, he could be found doing deliveries for Meals-on-Wheels, sorting books at the local Oxfam shop, campaigning with the local branch of Amnesty International over the plight of political prisoners and delivering ward newsletters for Green Party councillors Les, who hailed from County Durham, also had a long-time interest in wildlife and animal welfare. He was treasurer of Herefordshire Badger Group where he was also ‘hands on’ in the rescue of badgers suffering injury or distress.

ALSO READ:

• Trees to be stripped from ancient Herefordshire woodland
• Armed police called to threats of 'significant harm' to baby in Hereford
• Hereford dentist rated after CQC inspectors visit

His widow, Jan, described him as “a man who was generous with his time and helping people. He remained a north easterner at heart - rugby and his pipe were his passions.”

Former Leominster mayor Felicity Norman said: “Les contributed tirelessly to community life and the causes that were dear to him. His was truly a life well lived.”

Les Hardy, who died peacefully at home on March 12, was buried at Humber Woodland of Remembrance near Leominster on April 2.

Mrs Hardy welcomes donations made directly to St Michael’s Hospice.

• We publish obituaries for free. Submit them here: bit.ly/HTtribute. Death notices can be placed and paid for here: bit.ly/HTnotices.