A WELL-known bookmaker, dubbed “Grandad Bear” has passed away at the age of 82.

Retired bookmaker, Louis Walter Carter, known as “Wally” passed away on March 8 after a short illness.

Mr Carter and his wife, Christine Carter, who passed away nine years ago, owned the betting shop Pemberton Racing in Ombersley Road, Worcester, for 30 years before he retired at the age of 70.

Mr Carter, who lived in Worcester Road, Malvern, will be “sorely missed” by his three sons, 15 grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

His 56-year-old son, Carl Theakston said: “My dad was a very honest and well-respected man. He never had a cross word with anyone. He was always up for a laugh and joke.

“Wally always had time for people and made friends wherever he went. You could not meet a more patient, kind, caring and gentle man. He led by example and was a true role model in the family.

“His grandchildren called him Grandad Bear as he was just a big cuddly bear. He will be sorely missed by everyone.

“Although we were not blood relatives, he took on the paternal role and married my mum when me and my brothers were teenagers.”

Horse racing was a big part of Mr Carter’s life, while he regularly enjoyed visiting Worcester Pitchcroft Racecourse.

Mr Theakston added: “My dad was like an encyclopaedia of sport. He knew everything - people would come to him for tips on betting.

“He could settle bets quicker in his head than people could on computers.”

Football was a passion of his and he was an avid supporter of West Ham United Football Club.

The family welcomes anyone who knew Mr Carter to attend the service which will take place on Friday, April 5, at Great Malvern Priory, Malvern, at 11.30am followed by Worcester Crematorium at 1pm.

Donations to The Injured Jockey Fund and The Cats Protection League would be appreciated. To donate towards the charities, cheques can be sent to the AV Band in Worcester.

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