POPULAR local pub landlord, sportsman and charity supporter Ian Stewart has died aged 66. Ian and his wife Pam – a local dentist who died in 2004 – moved to Redbourn where Ian became landlord of The George in 1980 before taking over The Six Bells in St Mi

POPULAR local pub landlord, sportsman and charity supporter Ian Stewart has died aged 66.

Ian and his wife Pam - a local dentist who died in 2004 - moved to Redbourn where Ian became landlord of The George in 1980 before taking over The Six Bells in St Michael's Street, St Albans, two years later.

The pub's popularity with sportsmen was strengthened by Ian's playing and administration links with the Old Verulamians Rugby Club and his love of cricket.

He was also past chairman and long-time secretary of the St Albans Licensed Victuallers Association.

Ian left The Six Bells in 1989 and ran a Wine Warehouse in Wheathampstead, becoming involved in many local events in the village.

Throughout his years in the St Albans district, he belonged to the Round Table, Square Table and St Albans Constitutional Club, was King of Egypt in the Boxing Day St Albans Mummers Play for many years and also took part in the St Albans Mini-Marathon as an unforgettable Snow White.

Roger Osborn, a friend of Ian for over 45 years, said: "Ian was, in every sense, larger than life! He could be very forthright, positive and explosive but this facade hid the most gentle, generous and caring man. His support and initiatives for good causes was legendary."

He added: "He lived life to the full and was the catalyst for so much fun and fund-raising. He'll be much missed but he leaves us with so many happy memories.

Ian leaves a daughter Lizzie and a son Alistair. The funeral has already taken place.