A popular voice and regular guest on Radio Norfolk for many years, Philip Nightingale, has died aged 66 at his home in Wells.

He also fronted a feature, 'Fun-raising' which highlighted various good causes and later became an element of the BBC Radio Norfolk Helpline.

Invited by David Clayton to talk about his work with the Children's Society in the early 1980s, his lively and hilarious comments led to further appearances including later as a co-presenter of the Norfolk Airline mid-morning show.

'I thought he was hilarious and great to have on the radio that he became something of a regular guest. He put the fun into fund-raising,' he added.

With his energy and drive, they organised many successful events at The Talk and also at the former Norwood Rooms, in Aylsham Road, Norwich.

Born at Basford, Nottingham, he went to Taverham Hall and then after leaving Gresham's School, Holt, joined Mann Egerton in Prince of Wales Road and became a popular salesman.

Later, as the owner of the Brundall Hotel and Country Club in the mid 1980s, his outrageous sense of humour often saw him acting a Norfolk version of 'Basil Fawlty,' the hotelier made famous by John Cleese.

After moving to Wells in 1988, he became well known, although one stunt in the town's annual carnival involving a second world war German KubelWagen or tub truck, which resembled a metal bath on wheels, caused more than a few eyebrows. He also often drove his WWII Jeep, which he had meticulously restored, through the town.

A cortege led by a Scorpion light reconnaissance tank and his Jeep took the coffin to the St Nicholas Church for the funeral service.

He leaves three children, Rachel, Sarah, Christopher and a grandson, Thomas. A funeral has been held at St Nicholas Church, Wells.