A FORMER Farnborough solicitor who was well-known for his great ability and integrity has died aged 88.

Denis Blunden, a solicitor for over 60 years, was a senior partner of Davies, Blunden and Evans when he retired in 1982.

In a tribute the firm said: “He had great talent and excelled at everything he undertook.”

Mr Blunden also gained a reputation for being a neat and tidy worker who did not believe in plush offices with thick carpet and expensive furniture.

“He was proud of the brown lino on the floor and the broken lampshade,” said the firm’s statement.

“When approached about this he remarked that his clients came to see him and not because of his office furnishings.”

Mr Blunden was born in Farnborough and his father farmed a large area of land at Cove known as West Heath Farm which is now a large housing estate.

In Cove the family name is commemorated in the name of a road, a community hall and the legal practise.

Mr Blunden qualified as a lawyer in 1938 having achieved one of the highest places in the country in his final examinations.

Although he specialised in property development work, he was able to give advice on most matters which landed on his desk.

Away from his legal work, he was a talented sportsman and played football for Woking and cricket for Horsell.

He was a lifelong member of Hampshire Cricket Club, and was a past president of both the local Chamber of Trade and the Rotary Club.

Mr Blunden is survived by a son, daughter and grandchildren. His wife Peggy died several years ago.