ONE of Hereford's leading architects and the driving force behind the 'Elgar in Hereford' group has died at the age of 72.

Nigel Dees was respected for his professional life as a partner with Johnson, Blight and Dees, his work with the church and, in the last two years, the enthusiasm and energy he put into organising a permanent tribute to Sir Edward Elgar in Hereford.

Mr Dees died unexpectedly at Hereford County Hospital on August 7 after a two-year fight with cancer.

Born in Cardiff, Mr Dees fell in love with Herefordshire while visiting relatives during his holidays and decided to move here 1954, taking a job in local government.

He joined Johnson, Blight and Dees in 1971 going on to work on a number of high profile projects including St Michael's Hospice, Holme Lacy College, Ewyas Harold Catholic Church and work at the Royal National College for the Blind.

Respected by both his clients and building contractors, he was described by Roger Bayley of Bayley Brothers as: "A consistently fair and pleasant character to deal with, a rare breed indeed."

It was while fighting cancer in hospital two years ago that a leader article in The Hereford Times aroused Mr Dees' interest in creating an Edward Elgar memorial.

His wife Frances Dees said: "It became a good project to get him going again after his illness.

"Despite his death the project is moving forward. The artist has been chosen and fundraising is underway."

A Catholic, Mr Dees was actively involved with the church and was the first lay chairman of the Hereford Christian Council as well as being involved with the local scouts group.

With five children and six grandchildren, at heart, he was a family man.

Mrs Dees said: "He was incredibly patient. He managed to teach all five children to drive which takes some doing."

Nigel Dees is survived by his wife, a sister, five children and six grandchildren.

The funeral will be held on Friday at Belmont Abbey.