Gareth Woodfine, the well-known solicitor, businessman, sportsman and philanthropist has passed away at the age of 89.
A proud Welshman, Gareth started his eponymous law firm Woodfine and Co in 1971 from offices in Mill Street.
The firm grew quickly with expansion into London and neighbouring towns before moving into larger premises in Bedford High Street and being recognised as one of the largest law firms in the region.
A shrewd businessman, Woodfine had many interests outside of the legal profession, in particular, property and very often alongside his great friend and brilliant entrepreneur Charles Lousada.
This led him to withdraw from his law firm to concentrate on other businesses.
However, the lure of law was too great and he again set up another legal practice named Gareth Woodfine and Partners, this time outside of his ‘exclusion zone’ in Sandy.
Subsequently, the firm opened an office at 15 St Cuthberts Street before moving across the road to 16 St Cuthberts Street in 1988 and from where the firm continues to operate to this day.
Many friends benefitted from his renowned generosity.
He made many discreet financial loans to those starting in business and a large number of local charities and organisations were also recipients of his generosity.
Notably, his hospitality was legendary with white port and negroni always in plentiful if not oversupply.
Paradoxically, he struggled to suffer fools and woe betide you if you bought a paperclip or made a grammatical error in a letter.
A keen sportsman, Gareth played rugby for Bedford Athletic before serving the club as a committee member, Chairman and President.
He also played cricket for the Barleaners, enjoyed golf and was one of the founders of the notorious Winkles Running Club which contained some of Bedford’s most colourful characters.
Married to Maria he leaves three children, four stepchildren, nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
The funeral will be for family only with a future luncheon event to celebrate his incredible life to be arranged.
