"A Well-known representative of one of the oldest county families of Malvern in Worcestershire has been removed," intoned the Gazette a century ago.

The paper was reporting the passing of George Edward Martin of Ham Court, who had died the previous Sunday.

"Mr Martin has for many years been a familiar figure in many other parts of the county, and though a remarkably level-headed business man (a fact illustrated by the successful manner in which he has for years filled the position of senior partner in the well known banking firm of Messrs Berwick, Lechmere, Isaac, Martin and Co) he was also a man of genial and kindly disposition, and his death will be regretted by a wide circle of friends."

Apart from his business interests, Mr Martin also had a taste for public service, having served as a high sheriff, justice of the peace, member of the Severn Commission, city treasurer, and chairman and treasurer of the council of Malvern College, as well as trustee and treasurer of various charities.

"Mr Martin was prominent in connection with the movement which led to the Severn Navigation Act of 1890, and the deepening of the Severn from Gloucester to Stourport. As chairman of the Board he fostered the efforts of individuals and local authorities to make Worcester a seaport.

"The deceased gentleman had a great fondness for Norway, and spent many of his holidays there.

"In agriculture he was no mean authority, having quite a large estate at Ham Court, to which he gave personal supervision."