TRIBUTES have been paid to a Hampshire judge who died last week.

Judge Peter Henry, who knew John Dixon as a close friend and colleague for 30 years, described him as “the most human and humane of people”.

Following Judge Dixon’s death last week, Judge Henry paid tribute to him on August 12 at Southampton Crown Court.

He said Judge Dixon, who was 62 and lived in St Mary Bourne, was gentle, unfailingly courteous, charming and an excellent judge.

“He made time for people,” Judge Henry told the assembly of fellow judges, barristers and court staff.

“He was studious and well read. He was above all a man of the most generous spirit.”

On behalf of the bar, David Jenkins said: “Even the meanest barrister would melt in front of him after a few questions. He always got the right answer in the end. He will be sorely missed.”