19/2/2009: TRIBUTES are pouring in for superb Budleigh Salterton pub landlord John Salt, who has died, aged 60, after a brave battle against cancer.

19/2/2009: TRIBUTES are pouring in for 'superb' Budleigh Salterton pub landlord John Salt, who has died, aged 60, after a brave battle against cancer.

The town is this week united in its grief over the death of Feathers' landlord John, who people are remembering for his generosity, sense of humour and selflessness.

Born in Barking, Essex, John moved to Budleigh Salterton with his wife Joan, and their sons, in 1980.

The family fell in love with the town simply because the beach was the only sunny spot on an otherwise miserable and foggy winter day in Devon.

Wife Joan, who would have this year celebrated her 40th wedding anniversary, has so many happy memories of her and John's life together.

Joan said her lasting memory of her 'totally devoted' husband - a family man who loved nothing more than spending time with his grandchildren, Lauren, seven, and Kian, three - would be when the couple recently renewed their wedding vows at Tidwell Manor.

Joan said: "It was such a lovely day. John was so surprised and pleased. I hadn't seen him look so happy for a long time."

Tributes to selfless John were this week led by close friend and Budleigh town councillor John Shiel.

He said: "John was a good friend. He was honest, hardworking and liked a good laugh. He was always there when you needed him - at any time."

Budleigh Salterton Lions Club member Geoff Paver said: "He was a Lion for 27 years. He was a superb person who was willing to help anybody, anytime. I am going to miss him."

Chamber of commerce social secretary Pauline Swannell said: "He was a lovely man who will be sadly missed. We always used to have a bit of banter and I shall miss that.

"He was a good publican who was good at making people feel welcome.

"John always supported the chamber of commerce. He was an active chamber member who helped whenever we needed it."

Budleigh Salterton Mayor Chris Kitson said: "John was an important part of the community. He was a good host and very welcoming."

John leaves his wife Joan and sons Neil and Jonathan.

READERS TRIBUTES:

We recall John's own words "only a real man can wear pink!". John was a truly selfless, courageous and real man. He will be sorely missed by all those who knew him.

Mike and Jenny

It was with great sadness that I learned of John's passing. My wife and I first met John and Joan when they ran the Cafe and picture framers in the High Street. They were always a friendly and hard working couple who gave much to the community and worked hard. From that tea room to the Feathers today, they have always had a smile for their regulars and John's passing is a sad loss. Condolences to Joan and Family at this sad time.

Ian and Rosemary Woolger

Please convey my heartfelt sympathy to Joan. I worked with her for many years before leaving the area to live in Cornwall. I have only just read the online version of your paper and was staggered to read of John's death.

Jenny Gardner