The former owner of Honiton’s Pit Club and New Dolphin Hotel has died aged 83.

Midweek Herald: Bill throws pennies to the crowd at Honiton's annual Hot Pennies ceremony.Bill throws pennies to the crowd at Honiton's annual Hot Pennies ceremony. (Image: Archant)

The former owner of Honiton’s Pit Club and New Dolphin Hotel has died aged 83.

Bill Rees moved to Farway in 1969 and bought the Pit Club, in Honiton, a few years later.

After a complete refurbishment, and having transformed the nightclub into one of the most popular venues in East Devon, Bill moved into the hotel business.

He purchased the New Dolphin Hotel, in High Street, in April 1983, successfully running it with his son, Nicholas, until his retirement.

As a retiree, Bill followed his dream of travelling around the world before falling in love with Fiji, a country he would live in until returning to UK after Nicholas died from cancer.

Father-of-three Bill lived in Exmouth throughout his final years before his death on Monday, November 7.

Paying tribute to her father, Amanda Dutt said: “I have many happy memories of the after-hours fun at the Pit Club, and the many other parties held at the New Dolphin Hotel.

“My father was an extremely generous man, particularly with his time and money. He will be sorely missed by us all, especially by his grandchildren, Kofi and Nina.”

Bill’s ex-wife, Beryl, said: “Although I was divorced from Bill, we remained good friends throughout his life, and I will miss him.

“He made friends very easily wherever he went and he would speak to anybody and everybody.

“He will be missed by all.”

Bill’s funeral will take place at East Devon Crematorium in Whimple this Friday (November 18).

Starting at 3.15pm, all are welcome to attend to pay their respects.

The family is asking for donations to be made to the Prader-Willi Syndrome Association UK.