Lodge started as a Lego model

He built a scale model of Tucson Lodge to illustrate to his architect what he had in mind.

Mr Willis – who died earlier this year aged 95 – was part of the fifth generation of building company Willis Dawson.

In addition to houses, he and his brother Don also built St Mary’s Roman Catholic church in Dunstable in 1962. This earned the pair the honour of 65 days less in purgatory – a gift bestowed by way of thanks from the grateful Bishop of Northampton.

The late Mr Willis was also a keen historian who gave lectures and guided walks round the town and recorded interviews with dozens of elderly residents about their lives.

These formed the basis for a trilogy of books.

Tuscon Lodge – a detached bungalow at the end of a small close in Leighton – has three en-suite bedrooms, a kitchen/breakfast room, sitting room. dining room, study and conservatory, making up 1,799 sq ft of light and airy living space.

Nearby facilities include Stockgrove and Rushmere Country Parks and Leighton Buzzard Golf Club.

Local shopping is in Leighton Buzzard with Milton Keynes centre approximately 11 miles away.

Euston station is half an hour from Leighton Buzzard railway station.

The property falls within the catchment areas of various local schools and is on the market for offers in excess of £500,000 at michaelgraham.co.uk