TRIBUTES have been paid to a well-loved member of the Wellington community who has sadly passed away.

Terry Ayres, 77, died suddenly in Wellington on June 17.

Terry was a popular man who had worked at Swallowfield for more than four decades, and was always seen out and about on his bike.

Since his passing, hundreds of people have taken to social media to voice their sadness and to share their memories of their old friend.

A statement on behalf of Terry’s family said: “Terry was a very well respected and well loved member of the Wellington Community.

“He would often be seen cycling around the town or sat in his favourite spot in the Iron Duke, where he would make the time to chat to anyone he met.

“He was best known for his beaming smile and lovely warm nature, and he will be sorely missed but everyone who knew him.”

The family says they have been truly touched by the kind messages of sympathy left by members of the public in his memory.

Matt Foster, funeral director at Quantock Funeral Services, said: “Due to the current restrictions in place regarding attendance numbers at the crematorium and the overwhelming messages of love and sympathy from the local community, we have decided to dedicate a book of condolence to Terry.

“We welcome all those who wish to leave a message or share a memory to visit our office in Fore Street, Wellington, to place their message in the book, which we will then give to Terry’s family as a keepsake.”

The funeral service will be private due to the current Covid-19 restrictions, but Quantock Funeral Services will webcast the ceremony for those who wish to join in to their respects to Terry.

The funeral is set to take place on July 2.

Mr Foster added: “We will take Terry on his last journey through Wellington from Fore Street at around 1.15pm.

“We will pause outside the Iron Duke, and then on to Swallowfield, where he worked for more than 40 years, so that his friends and colleagues can say a final goodbye.

“Then we will return to pass the Iron Duke one last time, before making his final trip along the high street.”

Donations can be made in memory of Terry to the British Heart Foundation or to Cancer Research UK by visiting website terryayres.muchloved.com.