Jean Francois Marie Roualle, who was always known by his nickname, “Bicky,” has died at the age of 89. He was married to a former leading Norfolk county councillor, Frances, who was a chairman of the education committee, for more than 60 years.

Jean Francois Marie Roualle, who was always known by his nickname, “Bicky,” has died at the age of 89.

He was married to a former leading Norfolk county councillor, Frances, who was a chairman of the education committee, for more than 60 years.

Although not a native of Norfolk, they came to the county because of his wife's family connections. They made their home at The Lodge, White Hart Street, Aylsham, for half a century.

He married Frances in February 1946 and then two months later returned to serve in Malaya, where she later joined him and stayed for 11 years.

Born at Epsom College in 1917, the son of French parents, he soon acquired the nickname “Bicky” by which he was known all his life. His brother, who was two years older and died a fortnight ago, was known as “Dicky”.

Standing 6ft 5in tall, he excelled at sports. Like so many of his generation, he was lured to the colonies, joining the Malayan Customs Service in 1937. By all accounts it was an exciting life, breaking up smoking dens and raiding illicit opium stills. He also represented Malaya and Singapore playing international rugby.

He was imprisoned by the Japanese and sent to work on the Burma Railway - “the railway of death.” In three years, he buried countless men from the Norfolk Regiment who lost their lives in the appalling conditions. He rarely spoke of these years. Later, he established close links with the Fepows who shared his experiences.

He always thought that wearing his Harlequin rugby club tie at the Royal Hotel, opposite the then Anglia Television offices, gave him a chance to get a job. He joined the newly-formed Anglia Television and went on to become part of the senior management team until retirement in 1982.

A loyal supporter of his wife's political activities, he helped at countless elections and running the local Conservation Association in his retirement. Mrs Roualle represented Aylsham on district and county councils for many years including eight years as chairman of the county education committee.

He leaves a widow, three daughters, four grandchildren and three great- grandchildren. The funeral will be held on Friday April 27 at St Michael's Church, Aylsham (3pm).