A Taunton widow has paid tribute to her ‘wonderful’ husband, who finally fulfilled his wish of marrying her, just three days before he died of cancer.

Taunton man Simon Mole, 47, died of bowel cancer on November 15 after battling the illness since June 2008.

This week, his new bride and partner of 18 months Jane praised his courage.

She said: “He was a real fighter. He was so positive and came at it head on.”

Despite clear scans in March following chemotherapy, the cancer returned in April and after further treatment he developed complications and died in a Harley Street clinic in London.

Just days earlier was married to Jane in a ceremony held at the clinic, after doctors wrote to the registrar asking for special dispensation.

Devon and Cornwall Constabulary police sergeant Jane said: “He was a wonderful husband to me and a wonderful partner. He was kind, caring and considerate. We were very much in love and devoted to each other.

“It was what we both wished for and perhaps he hung on so we could get married. After we were married he was happy and at peace.”

Mr Mole ran Business Connections based in the Crescent, Taunton.

He was among the first patients to be treated at the new Beacon Centre at Musgrove Park Hospital, Taunton, which is supported by the County Gazette’s Somerset Unit for Radiotherapy Equipment appeal.

“He was given wonderful care at The Beacon and in Parkside at Musgrove,” added Jane.

Mr Mole also leaves two children, Edward, 17 and Caitlin, 15. His funeral took place in Taunton yesterday.

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