TRIBUTES have been paid to a much-loved chef whose kind heart and cream scones helped spread happiness where ever he went.

Roy Compton, from Crook, died on Boxing Day after enjoying a magical Christmas Day with his family in Swindon, Wiltshire.

The 78-year-old was well-known in the Crook area, running a meals on wheels service for more than 20 years with his wife, Margaret.

He continued to deliver home cooked meals to elderly people up until six weeks before his death from cancer, and his generous nature earned him many friends.

Following his death, Mr Compton’s family has been inundated with messages of condolence, including almost 100 sympathy cards and countless phone calls and texts.

Mrs Compton, 72, said: “Roy was a very kind man. In almost every sympathy card people referred to him as a true gentleman, and he really was. He just loved people and he loved to cook for them. When he delivered the meals on wheels he would always stay and have a chat.”

Originally from Chesterfield, Mr and Mrs Compton moved to Crook in 1987 to take over the Uplands Hotel, which they ran together for twelve years. A Freemason, Mr Compton also did the catering for functions at St Catherine’s Masonic Lodge in Crook.

Mr Compton discovered his love for cooking at a young age and started his catering career in the Army. He remained in the hospitality industry for the majority of his working life, aside from a spell as a track inspector for British Rail.

Before moving to County Durham, he ran a popular café in the Peak District called The Corner Cupboard, and later The Peveril Hotel in Skegness with Mrs Compton.

“Roy’s loves were his family, cooking and the meals on wheels service,” said Mrs Compton.

“He loved baking and was renowned for his corned beef pies and cream scones. The Women’s Institute would request his cream scones for their meetings at Dawson Street Chapel three or four times a year.

“He was also well-known for his sense of fun. He had a smile and a joke for everyone.”

Mr Compton leaves behind a loving family, including: Mrs Compton and their three children, Barry, Ashley and Toni; nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and his younger brother Barry.

A memorial service will be held at St Catherine’s Church in Crook on Wednesday at 1pm. Donations will be split between Macmillan Cancer Support and Prospect Hospice in Swindon.