THE funerals of Lockeridge couple John and Judith Woodget who died following a car crash, will take place on Saturday.

A huge number of their friends and family are expected to gather at 11am for the service at West Overton Church to remember the popular couple, who friends have described as “pillars of the community”.

Mr Woodget, 64, and Mrs Woodget, 65, of Dene Farm, died after their car collided with a lorry in a layby on the A303 at Sutton Scotney near Winchester on Sunday, July 19.

Maria Sheppherdson, chair of governors at Kennet Valley Primary School, where Mrs Woodget was a governor, has paid tribute to the couple.

She said: “John and Judith served Kennet Valley Church of England VA School with generosity and commitment in too many ways to mention.

“Judith was a much-loved colleague governor and worked tirelessly for the bettering of the school for generation after generation of our children.

“One legacy amongst many is the spiritual garden. It is here in that garden, which she created, that they will be remembered by our school community with deepest respect, affection and gratitude.”

The couple leave children Matthew, Lucy and Sarah and their four grandsons Theodore, Maxwell, Sebastian and Miles. Their son Matthew has since posted a heartfelt blogpost on his website entitled ‘When those you love are killed’.

In it, he writes: “The outpouring of grief and support has been a chorus of broken hearts. We deeply appreciate everything everyone has done from simple ‘I’m sorry’ to hugs to friends going above and beyond to help with everything from driving, cars, airport runs, food and cooking. I honestly don’t know what we would do without you.”

The family say tributes to the couple are welcome via donations to the John and Judith Woodget Fund at the Wiltshire Community Foundation. Donations can be left via www.wiltshirecf.org.uk or by ringing (01380) 729284.