LEADING Ipswich family psychiatrist Dr James Kitson Merritt has died, aged 73.The music-loving doctor, who was a consultant at Ipswich Hospital, will be remembered fondly by many families in Suffolk whom he helped during his long career.

By James Fraser

LEADING Ipswich family psychiatrist Dr James Kitson Merritt has died, aged 73.

The music-loving doctor, who was a consultant at Ipswich Hospital, will be remembered fondly by many families in Suffolk whom he helped during his long career.

He began working as a child and family psychiatrist in 1957 and became Director of the Institute of Family Psychiatry in Henley Road for several years until his retirement in 1985.

The popular doctor, who lived in Colchester Road, Ipswich, was known for his warm and caring attitude and for his major contributions to the training of specialists and other professionals who formed the team helping with psychiatric patients.

But he was a man of many talents: outside of the hospital ward, he indulged his great love of music. He enjoyed singing and had been a member of the Woodbridge Choral Society, the Wilbie Singers and the Ipswich Bach Choir.

He also played the organ and was often found honing his skills on the instrument at the church of Mary-le-Tower.

Ornithology, painting, surfing and squash were his other hobbies, although his main concern was for his family.

"His sense of humour, dedication and love of nature will never be forgotten," said former colleague, Dr Judith Cuthill.

Dr Kitson Merritt leaves a widow, a daughter and two sons.

His funeral will be held on March 4 at Ipswich Crematorium at 2pm. Anyone is welcome to attend but instead of flowers his family have asked for donations to be sent to the Ipswich Hospital's Rhythm of Life Appeal, care of the Co-op Funeral Service in Upper Orwell Street.