Hundreds at York Minster to mourn former Barnitts chairman Ian Thompson

HUNDREDS of mourners gathered in York Minster as family, friends and former colleagues said their final farewells to Ian Thompson, the former chairman of Barnitts.

It was standing room only at the morning service yesterday as more than 500 people gathered to pay their respects to one of York’s most prominent businessmen. Mr Thompson, who was 70, died suddenly in Majorca while on holiday at the second home he had bought as he started his retirement.

A silent and sombre congregation rose as one at 11am as the flower-adorned coffin was brought into the Minster, followed by more than 30 members of Mr Thompson’s family.

The service was conducted by The Rev Canon Glyn Webster, who said: “We have lost a truly wonderful man.”

Addressing Mr Thompson’s widow, Maureen, children Jane, Paul and Sally, sister, Pat, and his nine grandchildren, Canon Webster told them: “This is a difficult day – it is far too difficult to contemplate a life without Ian.

“He was a much-loved man, husband, father, relative and friend.”

He told the family to take comfort in the hundreds of people that had attended the service to pay their respects, saying: “That speaks more than any adequate words I can say today.”

The service heard how Mr Thompson had begun working at the Barnitts store at the age of 15 and worked his way up to the role of chairman – a position he cherished.

Canon Webster said he had often visited the store, and Barnitts was as much a loved York institution as York Minster itself and other city landmarks such as Bettys and Browns.

He said: “I commend Ian to his place in God’s care and keeping until the day you are reunited with him. Until then may he rest in peace with Christ.”

Both Barnitts stores, in Colliergate and Acomb, were closed all day as a mark of respect and to allow employees to attend the service.

Ian’s son Paul said his father had enjoyed relaxing in the warmer weather and enjoyed playing golf.

Paul had become managing director almost two years ago, but his father had still been involved with the business, taking a particular interest in the website.