A FORMER GP described as a ''very special and traditional family doctor,'' has died aged 64.Ian Bowles worked at the Framfield House surgery in St John's Street, Woodbridge, for 30 years.

A FORMER GP described as a ''very special and traditional family doctor,'' has died aged 64.

Ian Bowles worked at the Framfield House surgery in St John's Street, Woodbridge, for 30 years.

He retired at 60 and died recently at St Elizabeth Hospice, Ipswich. His funeral will be held on Friday at 2pm at St Mary's Church, Woodbridge.

A former colleague, David Healey, of Burkitt Road, Woodbridge, said: “Ian not only cared for his patients with a deep concern for their welfare, but went that bit further to find out for them the latest and most effective treatment for their condition, keeping them informed by frequent visiting, by telephone and his own particular lucid and thorough way of letter writing.

“He was a GP, consultant physician and friend all at the same time and was there for people in a more complete way than happens now in the age of delegation.

“His sense of responsibility extended to visiting his sick patients after evening surgery to make sure they were comfortable for the night.”

Dr Healey said Dr Bowles's list of hobbies reflected his love of life and he enjoyed sailing, rowing, singing and cycling on a tandem with his wife, Christiane.

He added: “Singing in the Woodbridge Choral Society and meeting his friends in the pub afterwards, meant so much to him. Our sympathies go especially to his wife, Christiane, and his two sons, Philippe and Oliver.”