A WINCHESTER GP practice is in mourning following the sudden death of its former senior partner.

The Friarsgate Practice has opened a book of remembrance, following the death of Dr Roddy Morton from a stroke on December 16.

Dr Morton, 63, was a partner at Friarsgate for 34 years and a senior partner for 10, before retiring around three years ago.

Only last month he attended the opening of the new Friarsgate surgery in Weeke, following its relocation from the city centre.

His long friendship with Lord Winston ensured the eminent doctor and TV presenter did the formal opening.

Dr Nigel Sylvester, senior partner, said: “It was a terrible shock to us all.

“He was out shooting and had a stroke and died that evening.

“He was a great shooter and died doing what he most enjoyed in life.”

A father of four, Dr Morton, from Morestead, had recently moved into a new home near Alresford.

Dr Sylvester added: “The sadness of it is that he was living in temporary accommodation before recently moving into his dream home, a farm house near Alresford.”

He paid tribute to his predecessor: “Firstly, he was an excellent, excellent doctor, and his patients still miss home even after all this time.

“He was very generous with his time. He was always the man who put his hand up first for extra tasks.

“He was a great leader of the practice and kind and generous to patients, partners and staff.

“The staff have been very badly affected by his death.

“We have opened a book of remembrance at the practice for people to sign. We will present it to his wife Jilly.”

Dr Morton was also a trustee of Brendoncare, the Winchester-based charity that cares for the elderly.

A memorial service will be also be held at a date to be confirmed.

Did you know Dr Morton? Leave your tributes below.