The family of a much-loved doctor has paid tribute to him, describing his “tremendous gift for hospitality and kindness”.

Dr Stanley Alfred Bagshaw, 71, who was a GP in Whitehaven for many years, sadly died on October 16. His funeral was held this week.

He was married to Joss and was father of Charles, Rosie and Matthew. He was also grandfather to Rosie’s three children: Megan, Olly and Marley.

Rosie said: “He was my world – I always called him my number one and he was the best grandad and father to the kids and me.”

Dr Bagshaw’s family have spoken about his life and how he vowed to become a doctor from a young age. It was this love of helping people that continued throughout his life.

His sister Chrissy said the family witnessed a devastating train crash in Lewisham, in South London, when Stan was only 11 years old. He and their father spent the evening helping to provide blankets and hot drinks to those in need as well as showing injured people to the hospital.

He later attended Aberdeen University to study medicine and worked in towns across England and Scotland. He met his wife Joss in Cornwall in 1974 and they married seven years later.

On their wedding day the poem Desiderata by Max Ehrmann was read by which they vowed to live their lives, a lesson passed on down the generations.

During his time in Whitehaven, Dr Bagshaw joined the practice at Catherine Street Surgery, and subsequently moved to Church Street surgery in 1986 and latterly to Mansion House Surgery in Whitehaven.

His family say: “He was a highly-respected and much- loved doctor by both his staff and patients, with a quick wit and unique ability to get to the crux of any matter.”

Dr Bagshaw and his wife lived in Distington and Whitehaven before moving to St Bees in 1986.

“He especially loved walking in the Lake District and by the sea, as well as gardening and maintaining his allotment. His real love was to read, and he would read anything at hand. He was wonderful company with a tremendous gift for hospitality and kindness.”

He retired five years ago due to ill health but enjoyed spending time with family, grandchildren and friends.

The family have thanked the community for their support during his life and since his death, especially Dr Paul Mead for his support; to his colleagues; family friends especially the Creed family for all their help; Mike Jolly at Eaves Funeral services and Sandy and Jayne Bowman at St Bees School for their help for the celebration.