A well known Deal bin man is set to have a memorial bench in his name.

Robert Wand, 63, of College Road, died on Wednesday, January 20 after he collapsed near his home. The cause of death remains unknown.

Mr Wand was always seen walking his beloved Jack Russell Lucy and was described by his friends as a man with old school values who loved his job.

Residents recalled seeing Mr Wand around the town and that he brightened many people’s day.

Now, the community is aiming to give something back by supporting the efforts to obtain a bench.

A JustGiving page has already raised more than £200.

The idea first came about on Facebook page Deal Watch, after the Mercury’s report in last week’s paper was mentioned.

More than 100 people recalled their memories of Mr Wand and agreed that a bench would be a fitting tribute.

Tony Wickenden, the administrator of Deal Watch, said: “He was a lovely guy, always friendly, on or off duty, and will be sorely missed.”

'He was a lovely guy, always friendly, on or off duty, and will be sorely missed.' - Tony Wickenden

It is yet to be decided where the bench will go.

Mr Wand’s cat and dog returned to the Lord Whisky Sanctuary in Stelling Minnis where he got them. They were re-homed together on the Monday afterwards, as he wished.

His funeral will be held at St Saviour’s Church, The Strand, Walmer at 11am on Tuesday, February 23, followed by a burial at Deal Cemetery.

In accordance with his wishes, there will be no wake, but friends are welcome to celebrate his life afterwards.

Family flowers only, donations, if wished to his three chosen charities: The Lord Whisky Sanctuary Fund, Battersea Dogs Home and The Institute of Cancer Research.

The arrangements are being made via J Dilnot Smith & Sons.

Click here to pledge money to the memorial bench.