TRIBUTES have been pouring in for a 70-year-old Exmouth man who died at work in the city.

TRIBUTES have been pouring in for a 70-year-old Exmouth man who died at work in the city.

Cyril Williams collapsed while on his rounds as a van driver with Exeter's cleansing services.

He died despite the attempt by passers-by to resuscitate him.

Known affectionately as 'Squirrel', Cyril was popular with his colleagues and a past winner of 'personality of the year' in the annual Exeter City Council awards.

Mike Trim, head of the council's cleaning services, said: "Cyril always had a smile on his face.

"He loved life and nothing was too much trouble for him.

"He really was one of the nicest people you could meet."

Born in Exmouth, and living in the town, he began working for the city council cleansing services in 2003 following his retirement as a long-distance lorry driver.

After leaving Exmouth Comprehensive when he was 15, Cyril delivered laundry on a bicycle before changing jobs and working in a bakery.

He was last man to be called up for National Service - four days after he was recruited the government scrapped the scheme.

Learning to drive in the army, Cyril became a long-distance lorry driver after he was de-mobbed.

READERS' TRIBUTES

Cyril was a dearly loved brother who lived life to the full, he will be sorely missed by all his family and his many friends. Our New Years Day will never be the same without you but we will carry on the same tradition even without his flower money contribution!!

Michael (Buster) & Joan Williams

Cyril, you were my brother.

I loved you then and I always will.

Life won't be the same without your banter.

I'll keep shouting for your Manchester United!

You will be sadly missed by all the family.

Love you Brother

Love Marion, Jock and family X

Sorry to hear of Cyril's passing. Condolences from the Daverige family.

John Daveridge