A MAN who had been a nightwatchman for a car dealership has died.

Bert Whattam, 89, was born and raised in Durham. He died on April 24 and had been living in Rydal Care Home, Darlington.

When Mr Whattam was 15 years old he joined the Army, where he met his wife Avis Elaine.

The couple had five children, Valerie Ann, Ian, Herbie, Hillary and Avis. Mr Whattam was also grandad to Valerie Ann, Sarah, Sue-Ellen, Graeme and Emma and great-grandad to Ellie, Zoe, Graeme, Lewis, Harrison, Ethan, Freya and Emily.

After he left the Army, Mr Whattam enjoyed a varied career and ended his working life at Sherwoods car dealership as a nightwatchman.

Grandaughter Sue-Ellen recalled: “He never when anywhere without his keys.”

She added: “He is missed by us all.”

A funeral service was held on May 6, in Darlington.

You can pay tribute to your loved ones for publication in The Northern Echo and on our website using our Q&A form.