HUNDREDS of tributes have been paid on social media to long-time Swallowfield, Wellington, employee Terry Ayres.

Terry, who worked at the beauty and cosmetics firm for 48 years and could often be seen on his bike in town, died on Wednesday, June 17, aged 77.

A statement issued 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 by everyone who knew him.”

Quantock Funeral Services will webcast a private family funeral service at Taunton Deane Crematorium on Thursday (July 2) for those who wish to join in paying their respects to Terry.

Funeral director Matt Foster 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.”

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, 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 Terry’s memory to the British Heart Foundation and Cancer Research UK by visiting terryayres.muchloved.com or contacting Quantock Funeral Services, 10 Fore Street, Wellington TA21 8AQ. Phone 01823 661138.