TWO popular Taunton estate agents have sadly passed away, their families have announced.

David Ware, founder of Ware & Co, an estate agent based in Taunton, died on June 23.

Mr Ware established Ware & Co in 1986 and worked as an estate agent in Taunton for more than 20 years.

In a statement on social media, a spokesman for Ware & Co, said: "We are deeply saddened to make the announcement that the founder of Ware & Co, David Ware, passed away on June 23.

"David established Ware & Co in 1986 and loved his work as an estate agent in Taunton.

"In 1991 he also became president of the National Association of Estate Agents for a year. Simon worked with his father for over 20 years.

"He has helped many people in the Taunton area find and sell their homes and was widely respected and loved.

"He will leave a gap in the lives of Simon and Nicola and although retired, he was a frequent visitor to our office and will be greatly missed by us all here.

"A celebration of David’s life will be held at Taunton Deane Crematorium on Friday, July 12 at 2pm."

Also Peter Lee, a former mayor of Taunton Deane and a well known estate agent in Taunton and Wellington died on June 24.

In an obituary, Mr Lee's family said: "Peter Lee passed away on June 24, aged 76 years.

"Loving and much loved husband of Annette, father of Alistair and Stuart.

"Former Mayor of Taunton Deane and well known estate agent in Wellington and Taunton.

"The Funeral Service will take place at Taunton Deane Crematorium on Thursday July 18 at 2.30pm.

"Family flowers only but donations, if desired, for Cancer Research UK may be given at the service or sent c/o the Funeral Directors: H Tredwin & Son, 15 &17 North Street, Wellington, TA21 8LX."