TRIBUTES have been paid to a “gentle and caring” former family doctor who treated patients in Burnley for 40 years.

Dr Phoonoo Bezboruah, 76, known in the town as ‘Dr Bez’, died from a neurological illness in hospital.

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Dr Bezboruah treated generations of patients at Rosehill Surgery and had previously practised at Scott Park surgery.

Originally from India, he moved to the UK to study medicine and was working at Burnley Hospital when he met his future wife, Maureen Walsh, who was a midwife.

After going into general practice in the town, ‘Dr Bez’ became a trusted and valued GP to hundreds of patients.

His daughter, Sonya, 35, said: “Throughout his career as a doctor and his whole life, my dad always put others first and cared for all his patients, friends and family in the most wonderful way. Our family has been overwhelmed by loving messages and tributes from dozens of his patients.

“He was a quiet man but the central message from all who knew him was that his compassion and gentle nature gave him lots of charisma. People have said to us what they will remember is his kindness, generosity and beautiful smile.

“In my dad’s final days, he was cared for by the amazing neuro ward staff at Preston Royal Hospital. We were able to take advantage of the accommodation the hospital provide for patients’ relatives at Bowland House.

“This meant that we were able to rest and have a base close by to my dad so that he was never alone.”

Dr Bezboruah, who lived at Rosehill Mount, also leaves elder daughter Tara, and three grandsons, Aidan, Darragh and Conor.

His funeral will take place on Thursday, November 5, at St Mary Magdelene’s, in Burnley, at 10.45am, followed by committal at Burnley Crematorium at noon.