Hundreds mourn Fairfield post office raid victim
HUNDREDS of mourners have braved the snow to pay their respects to a "well-liked and much-loved" Worcestershire post office worker shot dead in an attempted armed robbery.
Craig Hodson-Walker's family walked to the church from their store in Fairfield to say a final farewell to the 29-year-old.
Mr Hodson-Walker was shot in the chest during a raid at the family's post office on January 9.
His mother, Judy Hodson-Walker, his father Ken, who arrived at the church in a wheelchair, his brother James, and his fiancee Lisa Bundy hugged each other in support as they made the short journey to St Mark's parish church in Fairfield.
During the service, the Rev Barbara Mapley paid tribute to the sub post master's son, saying: "Craig is constantly surrounded by love and lives on in the hearts of those who will miss him so much.
"He has gone on ahead of us far sooner than anyone imagined through that terrible deed but his memory is treasured and he is safe in the arms of God and we give thanks for that."
Ms Mapley said Mr Hodson-Walker had made a "big impact" on the village because he was "so cheerful and helpful and willing to put himself out for others".
She said: "It was a family characteristic. Many people have shared with me anecdotes that reflect the positive influence that Craig had - probably that he was unaware of."
Mr Hodson-Walker's coffin, covered in floral tributes, was carried into the church by pallbearers, including his brother James.
Mrs Hodson-Walker, her husband Ken, who was shot in the leg during the attempted robbery at Fairfield General Stores and Post Office, and Miss Bundy walked behind.
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