A former head chef of an Oxford University college has died -- just over a week after the death of his wife.

Alan Taylor, former head chef at Wadham College, died at the John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, last week (13 January). He was 83.

His 93-year-old wife Mary died eight days previously.

A joint funeral service for the couple was due to be held at St John's chapel, Oxford Crematorium, today (22 January) at 3pm.

Mr Taylor retired from Wadham College in 1985. He worked his way up to becoming head chef and held the post for about 11 years.

Mr Taylor lived with his wife, who came from Yorkshire, in Headington for many years.

Mike Smith, who joined the college in 1974 and took over as head chef upon Mr Taylor's retirement, said: "He devoted his time to looking after the college fellows.

"He was very old school in his ways and liked traditional British cooking."

Mr and Mrs Taylor are survived by daughter Patricia, son-in-law Terry and grandchildren Adam, Simon and Charlotte.

The family has asked for any donations in the couple's memory to be made to Oxford Animal Sanctuary or the Salvation Army, via S & R Childs Funeral Services, London Road, Headington.