Tribute paid to Wisbech hotel owner

A funeral service will be held for a Wisbech hotel owner next week.

Phillip Stokes, owner of the White Lion Hotel, died at his home in Love Lane on May 12 at the age of 65 following a long illness.

Mr Stokes, who was known as Phil, was a Bristol University graduate. Before moving to Wisbech, he worked for Reuters and travelled the world.

He was able to indulge his passion for military history and geo-politics with travel in Africa, Europe and the Middle East.

He moved to Wisbech in 1998 to join Farrow House as financial director until 2004.

Keen to stay in Wisbech, he bought the White Lion Hotel.

Mr Stokes spent a considerable amount of money refurbishing the White Lion and bringing jobs to the local community.

The current management and Mr Stokes’ family, are working to continue his dream for the hotel.

A funeral service for Mr Stokes will be held on Monday, June 8, at 2.30pm at the Fenland Crematorium at March.