THE founder of a well-known Worcester building firm has died suddenly, but peacefully, at the age of 94.

Ernest Vernon Spicer was a carpenter who had worked in the Birmingham area before setting up Spicers with his mother in January 1929. He didn't retire from the firm until 1988.

His first depot was at the corner of Northwick Road and Ombersley Road, where high-quality architectural joinery was produced.

During the war, Mr Spicer was county leader for the Ministry of Works defence plan, responsible for requisition of labour and plant to repair bomb damage in London.

By 1959, the firm had outgrown its original depot and moved to its present site at Checketts Lane.

Spicers was the main contractors for many public and private buildings, including University College Worcester, Perdiswell Sports Centre and Christopher Whitehead Girls' School.

When Mr Spicer finally retired, he sold the family interest to the senior management and the firm is now chaired by Terry Weaver, who joined Spicers in 1954.

A company statement said Mr Spicer would be remembered "for the high standards he set and the loyalty of his staff, which still persists today".

Married to the late Wynn, Mr Spicer is survived by a daughter, Rosemary, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He died at The Boynes Nursing Home, Upton-upon-Severn, on Tuesday, October 15.

A funeral service will be held at Worcester Crematorium on Monday, October 28, at 11am.