IT is with great sadness that I write this tribute to Basil Cullum who passed away on December 19, 2003.

Basil joined our company, J P Wood & Sons (Poultry) Ltd in 1960, coming to the area from Bristol. He was appointed marketing director in 1965 and retired in the 1980s.

Basil was one of the major players in the success of the company, which from very small beginnings went on to become one of the top five poultry producers in the UK, employing 1,300 people and turning over 29 million pounds in the 1970s.

His experience in marketing had a lot to do with establishing the 'Chukie Brand', it also played a pioneering part in today's modern poultry industry. Basil was very well known and respected by all, including our customers who numbered many leading supermarkets throughout the country.

In addition, he has been a major contributor to the culture of the local area by forming the Craven Arms Male Voice Choir which he led for over 40 years, retiring just 12 months ago. The choir will always be a lasting testimony to his memory.

Our family prayers and sympathy go to his wife Joan, and children Neil, Judith and Julian.

Mr Charles Wood,

wife Jean and family,

Watling Street South,