A family are remembering a much-loved couple from Powerstock who tragically died 25 years ago this month.

Parish councillor Peter Rose and his wife Freddie died when their car left the road and burst into flames near Poitiers in southern France on September 17, 1998.

The tragedy occurred just one day after the news that Mr Rose's elderly mother had passed away and the couple, both in their 50s, had decided to take the trip prior to attending the funeral.

Twenty-five years on, and the couple are very much still in thoughts of their family after leaving a son, Simon, and daughter, Sarah, behind.

Speaking about his parents, Simon, who lives in Gloucestershire, said: "They are still loved, missed and remembered every single day, by Simon, Emma, Connor, Jack, James and Charlotte."

When Simon and his family visit Powerstock, he says the village 'never feels the same' but has fond memories of his parents and his childhood.

He added: "So many great memories of village fetes, bell ringing and wheelbarrow races at Nettlecombe starting and finishing at the Marquis of Lorne pub.

"Dad ran a youth club in the village hall during the 80s every other Friday evening. Most of the children from Powerstock and the surrounding villages would come, and we'd play snooker, table tennis, table football etc.. and a little table for us to buy sweets and pop."

Peter and Freddie were an active couple within the community having lived for 23 years in the area after originally hailing from Cornwall.

A former Merchant Navy seaman, Peter was captain of the bellringers at St Mary's parish church and custodian of the church clock, as well as working as a self-employed gardener.

Three days a week, Peter worked for Netherbury lawyer, Simon Megan, who spoke fondly about his friend at the time.

"He was not just an employee but a great friend," said Mr Megan.

"They were just a terribly nice couple, Powerstock will certainly not be the same place without them.

"I think it will lose some of its warmth."

Freddie had worked as a receptionist in Bridport and had also ran a sandwich delivery service across west Dorset.

A close friend of the couple, Gay Slade, said at the time what 'an absolutely lovely couple' they were and that they would be 'sadly missed'.

Mrs Slade added: "Because so many people have said they want to help in some way a memorial fund has already been set up."

With the money raised, a wooden bench with a plaque was placed at the rear of the church in Powerstock where Peter and Freddie are buried side-by-side.