THE FRIENDS and family of a much-loved grandfather have donated £1,500 to the cancer charity that supported him in his final days.

John Jones was among Newton Aycliffe’s first residents when he moved to the new town to work as a fireman in 1961.

He later set up his own business, J & C Coaches, which - along with his voluntary work - made him a well-known and well-liked member of the community.

Sadly, Mr Jones was diagnosed with prostate cancer last month and died on Wednesday, September 17.

Macmillan Cancer Support was a great source of help and comfort to Mr Jones and his family following the diagnosis and the grandfather-of-five was determined to repay their kindness.

With his 80th birthday approaching, the family planned a big party and Mr Jones requested donations to Macmillan instead of presents.

Unfortunately, he died before this could happen but his friends and family ensured his wish was granted by donating a total of £1,500 to the charity at his funeral.

His daughter Debbie Iceton said this act of generosity was typical of her father.

“He was an amazing person; a devoted husband, fantastic dad and a treasured granddad,” she said. “He touched the lives of so many and he will be sadly missed.”

Mr Jones was born in Wheatley Hill in 1934 and worked in the pit after leaving school at the age of 16.

He hated it and ran away after four weeks to join the Cold Stream Guards.

But, three months later, he was sent home when it was discovered he was too young.

Mr Jones went on to serve an apprenticeship as a shoe repairer, before joining the RAF at the age of 18.

J & C Coaches was established in the late 1970s and the successful coach hire business remains in the family today.

Outside of work, he was a tireless fundraiser and group Scout master at 2nd Newton Aycliffe Scouts.

Mr Jones was also a member of the town’s Newton Aycliffe Rotary Club and delighted youngsters by dressing up as Father Christmas.

He leaves behind his wife of 55 years, Freda, his children, Debbie and Neville, and grandchildren, Ryan, Charlotte, Olivia, Emily and Thomas.