THE president of Clevedon Sailing Club, Laughton Gomm, died on August 22 leaving behind his wife, four children and 12 grandchildren.

Laughton, also known as Lud, was a founding cadet member of the club and joined in 1953 with his father Harold.

Laughton was a cadet officer and commodore twice. He helped to keep the club running efficiently and saw it grow into the thriving organisation it is today.

He was a quiet, caring man who inspired children and was involved for many years with the Clevedon scout movement.

Laughton was a keen dinghy sailor, yachtsman and caravanner. He previously worked at Gardiner Haskins and had his own business fitting curtains.

In his later years he suffered from Parkinson’s disease and died suddenly at Weston General Hospital. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.