THE funeral is to take place next Wednesday of one of the most highly respected businessmen in Broadway.

Peter Keil of Keil Antiques Ltd died after he was involved in a collision with a car in the High Street on November 1.

Mr Keil's accountant, Adrian Lord said: "We are devastated. He was an excellent employer. Some staff have worked for him for 40 years since they left school."

Villagers, who have placed floral tributes on the steps of his premises, describe the 69-year-old as a kind man who did lots of good deeds for people, quietly shunning publicity.

Neighbour and Broadway Traders secretary, Dottie Friedli said: "He showed kindness to many residents over the years and had a lovely sense of humour."

Another neighbour and fellow antiques expert, Adrian Ewart said: "He's been a close friend of our family for over 20 years.

"He had a great interest in Broadway and did things in the background." Born and bred in the village, Mr Keil, was the son of Henry Keil who founded HW Keil in Broadway in the 1930s after working for the quality furniture firm, Gordon Russell.

Peter Keil took over the firm when his parents died, becoming an expert in 16th and 17th century oak and walnut furniture. Chairman of Cotswold Antique Dealers' Association, Sean Clarke of Christopher Clarke Antiques, in Stow, said he was a much valued member of the association and of the antiques community as a whole.

Mr Keil leaves a brother John, who parted from the family business in 1959 and lives in London. He said: "Peter's death has come as a total shock."

His brother's funeral will take place at St Michael's Church in the village, at 12.15pm, next Wednesday. Family flowers only are being requested, but mourners can make a donation to the charity of their choice. An inquest into Mr Keil's death was opened and adjourned in Cirencester on Wednesday.

l A man has been arrested and released on police bail in connection with the incident in the High Street, at 6pm.