Trafford James

If ever the compliment ‘pillar of society’ was deserved by someone, it would be Trafford Percy James of Godmanchester who died recently at the age of 89.

Born in Godmanchester, he lived and worked there all his life. Trafford met his wife, Mary, while working for the Post Office. They married at Salem Chapel, Ramsey in November 1951 and went on to have a daughter, Christine and a son, David. There followed five grandchildren and three great- grandchildren. With his wife he ran the Post Office from the late 50’s until 1991, was an active member of St Mary’s Church, the British Legion and the Comrades Club.

Trafford was a church warden - amongst other roles - at St Mary’s Church and in 2011 his work was recognised when he was asked to attend the Maundy Service at Westminster Abbey. His popularity was reflected in the attendance at his funeral at St Mary’s in March.

A keen sports fan, he played bowls at the Royal Oak and St Peter’s Indoor Centre and was a dedicated supporter of Peterborough United FC from the early 60s. Trafford was a season ticket holder for over 40 years, but in recent years after he stopped going to games, he followed the club’s fortunes on radio commentaries. He also enjoyed playing cribbage and dominoes.

A life member of the Comrades Club, he was elected a trustee in recognition of his services and remained a popular figure at the Club up to the time of his death. His brother, Mervyn, who pre-deceased him, was a former secretary.

A family man and trusted friend, Trafford James was a proud Gumcestrian and in his memory the Town can be rightly proud of him.