It is with great sadness that we report that Chris Cullum, general manager of John Miller Garden Machinery, based in Chippenham, Wiltshire, passed away recently on his 58th birthday, after fighting with leukaemia over the past 10 months.

Chris started work as a Saturday-boy with John Miller at the age of 14. When he left school he became an apprentice in the workshop with John. After 15 years he decided to widen his knowledge in the horticultural trade and moved on to sales. At the same time he took an evening course in accounting and business management.

Six years ago, John Miller stood down and Chris ran the company with John's son Stephen helping with sales.

Chris was well known in the garden machinery trade and served on the Honda Dealer Council for several years.

He was a larger than life character, respected by all and will be greatly missed by all at John Millers, including their customers who he had built a good relationship with.

Chris leaves his wife and two children. 

His chosen charities were Bloodwise and Antony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust.