TRADERS in Monmouth were this week left shocked by the sudden death of fellow trader, Mr Stephen Charles Gordon Usher (61).

Mr Usher did not live in the town, but had run his business, The Kitchen Place in Beaufort Court, for a number of years.

He had been a member of the Monmouth and District Chamber of Trade and Commerce.

There was this week a notice in the door of the business, which said: "Due to a family bereavement, The Kitchen Place will be closed until further notice".

The family were said to be too distraught to discuss the matter.

The funeral service took place on Monday of this week at Hereford Crematorium. There were family flowers only, donations in lieu were for Megan Baker House.