RESPECTED estate agent Doug Preston was born in Christchurch on January 23, 1923.

Doug spent all his working life in the town, apart from during the war when he served in the Royal Air Force in Italy.

After war ended he worked for Lane & Laws Estate Agents in Church Street. When the office was taken over by Fox & Sons he was the manager of the Christchurch office for many years, until he retired.

Doug married Jean at Christchurch Priory on August 16, 1947 and the couple had many happy years together before Jean sadly passed away in July 2010.

The couple enjoyed the outdoor life and cycled for miles. Doug loved tending his garden and growing vegetables.

A quiet unassuming gentleman, he was much respected in his profession and will be sadly missed by his many friends and the neighbours who supported him during recent years at his Fairmile Road home.

They had no children but Doug and Jean selflessly cared for her father and her brother in their home.

Doug passed away peacefully in hospital on December 31, at the age of 87. His funeral service was held at Bournemouth Crematorium on January 11.