TRIBUTES have been paid to local builder and well-known football referee, James Uren, who died suddenly aged just 53 years, on July 29.

Speaking at his funeral service held at the Exeter and Devon Crematorium on Wednesday, August 15, his close friend Andrew Quick explained that James was born at Southend-on-Sea, Essex, Andrew first getting to know him when the Uren family moved to live at Lapford when Andrew was just 13.

Andrew explained: “We met on the school bus where we both attended Queen Elizabeth’s School in Crediton.

“We became great friends over the years and enjoyed the same interests.

“We joined Bow Young Farmers’ Club, where we had many great times and met our wives to be.

“After leaving school James started out as a farm worker and worked on a few local farms. He loved being out in the countryside and always enjoyed the sunshine.

“From there he went to work as a digger driver for the late Mr Bragg who became his father-in-law when he married Mandy in 1988.

“A couple of years later they had twin boys, Matthew and Andrew, to whom I am Godfather.

“Family life had begun and James decided to start up as a builder, taking on small jobs locally.

“He was confident and prepared to give anything a go, nothing was too much trouble, always with a smile.

“A few years later, Daniel arrived and life was busy.

“His building work was going well and in his spare time he joined the police to become a Special Constable, which he did for many years.

“From building extensions, James went on to barn conversions and new builds, where in tandem he built and project managed along with his son, Andrew, who had joined the family business.

“After the police he started refereeing at football matches, which he loved to do. He would say it was his way of switching off from everything.

“His work has left its mark in various locations, which has brought joy to many people over the years.

“His legacy will be with us, with the buildings he has created and the happy memories he has left us with, in our hearts.

“James was always ready to give help and support anyone throughout his life, without asking, for anything in return. What a friend.

“I conclude by saying the game of life has reached its peak for James and I am now finishing, as he would in the usual manner of the beautiful game, which he loved to referee.”

Mandy’s tribute to James was also read to the large congregation which filled the Chapel and outside for the service.

She wrote: On behalf of Pat, Andy, Lauren, Daniel, Charlotte, Matthew and I, I’d like to thank you all for coming today to send James off to the big football pitch in the sky.”

She said she was overwhelmed by the constant stream of love, support and help the family had received since the day of James’ death, explaining that she was grateful for the help and support from family and friends.

Mandy spoke about James’ love for life, going to work each day, adding that he was proud to work alongside Andrew, that they were both very fortunate to work for some great customers, many of whom have become dear friends.

She said he loved his family and added that they had recently spent time in his home town of Southend-on-Sea revisiting his old childhood haunts, then a trip to London and to the top of the Shard.

Mandy added: “He loved his friends too, spending many evenings full of laughter and banter.” She mentioned a pleasant day spent at a recent wedding and catching up with friends there.

She said he was especially proud to be a godfather to Oliver.

She spoke of recent holidays overseas and in the UK which were enjoyed, as well as celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary in the Cotswolds.

Mandy said James had been a referee for 12 years and “enjoyed every minute”.

She added: “He was pleased as punch when Matthew and Daniel became referees as well.”

She continued: “They made refereeing history recently when James refereed a cup final and Matthew and Daniel ran the line, a real family affair.”

She added that intense talks about football were commonplace, adding that she was one of the few ladies who knew the offside rule and many others besides.

Mandy asked that everyone remember James in happier times, adding that he was taken too soon, will be missed more than she can say, but leaves many with good memories.

Crediton Football Club recently paid tribute to James and a minute’s round of applause was also held before kick-off at a game against Tiverton.

Crediton AFC said: “Both Matt and Dan showed enormous courage and carried out their linesmen duties in honour of their father - an act we were all in awe of. No doubt James would have been most proud of them.”

The club added that James was always professional and earned the respect of those around him and said he will be sorely missed.

Donations, if desired, are being accepted for Devon Air Ambulance Trust, c/o A White and Sons, Albert Road, Crediton EX17 2BZ.