A HEARTBROKEN widow has paid tribute to her “larger than life” husband who died after a battle with lung disease.

Tony Biggs, who was 66, was an ex-police sergeant and former chairman of the St Helens CAMRA (campaign for real ale) branch.

Wife Anne, 50, with whom Tony had two children – Abi, 15, and Ben, 13 – says the family miss him desperately.

She said: “He was 6’ 3’’ and 18 stone, with a personality to match.”
Tony, who died last month, had suffered from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for around seven years.

After retiring from the police, Saints fan Tony worked alongside his wife at The Sutton Oak and The Black Horse in Moss Bank.

Anne, who lives in Whiston, added: “He was a real charmer. He was anti-lager and anti-football but he loved real ale, rugby and fishing.

“He’d have a bit of banter with the Saints players when they came in the pub.”

Tony’s funeral was held on February 9 at St Helens Crematorium with a wake afterwards at The Phoenix Inn in Canal Street.

Anne said: “There was a huge turn-out. Ex-police colleagues carried him and formed a guard of honour.”

A CAMRA representative said: “Tony worked tirelessly to establish the branch. He first acted as chairman to the sub branch from 2008 and then the branch proper from 2010 until he gave up the role in 2011 due to ill health. 

“During this time he oversaw some notable successes such as the two beer festivals held in the transport museum. Our sympathies go to Anne and his family.”

Among tributes on social media site Facebook, Stuart Leigh said: “Sad news, another of the gentlemen sergeants I worked with gone.”

Gary Wright said: “Such a sad, sad loss, a great person who will be missed by many; a true ambassador for our industry and a great mate. Rest in peace and carry on the real ale mission in heaven!”