Memorial unveiled to ‘true Ottregian’
Members of the late Tony Aboot's family, including wife Viv and sons Chris and Jeff, with Ottery mayor Glyn Dobson at the launch of the memorial planter for the former councillor and prominent local businessman. - Credit: Archant
The family of a renowned businessman and councillor who died last year say they are ‘delighted’ with a memorial to him in Ottery.
The town council was keen to create a tribute to its former member Tony Abbott, and after consulting with his family decided on a planter.
It needed agreement with NatWest to site the floral display outside its property, but the bank agreed permission and it was unveiled last weekend.
There is a plaque on it dedicated to Mr Abbott, who owned the successful DIY stores in Ottery and Seaton which bore his name with his wife Viv. Mrs Abbott said the planter looks very nice, and wanted to thank Ottery Town Council on behalf of the Abbott family for creating the memorial.
Mr Abbott, described as a ‘true Ottregian’ when he died aged 60 after losing a battle with cancer, was born in Jesu Street, and opened his first shop there in 1979 – in what was once his mum’s front room.
The business went from strength-to-strength, and was named UK Hardware Retailer of the Year in 2012.
