I just had to write to say how heart-warming it is to find there is still a strong sense of community spirit in Kidlington.

I have just returned from the funeral of my aunt, Marlene Denton.

She was a colourful character around Kidlington High Street for many years, particularly since my uncle passed away.

It was both refreshing and touching to find that not only were there friends and relatives at the funeral but also people whose lives she had touched.

Firstly there was the couple (whose husband had spent many a half-hour sat on the bench in the High Street with Aunty Marlene watching the world go by and having a chinwag), who had took the time to attend and pay their respects.

But the moment that brought a lump to my throat and a tear to my eye was when the vicar announced that at the end of the service the local Mr Softee Ice cream man would be parked at the church gates, offering all the mourners a free ice cream in respect for Marlene.

Apparently not only had he parked as close to her house as he could every day, in order for her to not have to walk far to get her ice cream but if she didn’t come out, he would take the time to knock on her door and check she was ok.

He has certainly restored my faith in human nature and I hope people bestow upon him the kindness he showed my aunt and all of us at the funeral. Well done that man.

Rosemary Cox, on behalf of the Denton family, Prichard Road, Headington, Oxford